tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82111845121536990052024-03-13T15:40:14.054-04:00UltanyaBig ideas and gaming outside the box.Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-82384810047184755332022-11-29T10:38:00.003-05:002022-11-29T21:50:02.170-05:00Krampusnacht Curios<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5VdKydgWEYZqBvDERn8ec-RKXsKdVJdQCpOfktDzxkU_R2cJCOp8geik06fk2syxI0NqVzBaE3ldxzm9DMTEqc130hhltSxXNPLp2RQym340Dk03STPg2px1VuQ3UDF0YxpmDZoXgw9YjUn-uaI_u5wk1kjJdh3hWewxdR0V0nQKZSKzjqMXV7jUrw/s1800/WEB_krampus.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1800" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5VdKydgWEYZqBvDERn8ec-RKXsKdVJdQCpOfktDzxkU_R2cJCOp8geik06fk2syxI0NqVzBaE3ldxzm9DMTEqc130hhltSxXNPLp2RQym340Dk03STPg2px1VuQ3UDF0YxpmDZoXgw9YjUn-uaI_u5wk1kjJdh3hWewxdR0V0nQKZSKzjqMXV7jUrw/w455-h303/WEB_krampus.jpg" width="455" /></a></p><p></p><p>So what does Krampus leave inside the shoes or boots of good little boys
and girls? Since the winter months are so harsh and unforgiving, he usually gifts them with minor enchanted items. These items have limited
use before becoming mundane keepsakes. Often their magical ability is
not even known by the owner and believed to just be good luck.
Superstition and mystery surrounds the curios as many run to see what
was left for them when the sun rises. These items, however, are not just
for children and can be left for adults. Additionally, they can be used for
any Krampus scenario you create as fun one shot treasures the players
find. So dig out that much maligned d12 and see what was left in your
shoe! </p><p><b>1. Badalisc Trinket.</b> This odd looking toy is wrapped in goat skin and
has a visage which includes a big head, two horns, a toothy maw, and
gold eyes. According to legend, if the actual Badalisc is captured, it
reveals all a town’s gossip to prevent bad things from happening. This
particular curio will make a one failed Charisma based check become a
natural 20. </p><p><b>2. Perchten Charm. </b>A strange looking animal foot of no discernible
origin which has been shrunken and dyed. The Perchten are the entourage of Perchta, an old god of the wild. These animal fetishes are known
for their ability to help lost creatures. The charm will work as a compass
to find any animal or beast one time before becoming mundane. </p><p><b>3. Wassail Apple.</b> Old Norse has a saying which goes <i>ves heill </i>or be in
good health. These spicy red apples are enchanted so that one can be
used to make an entire bowl of punch. It creates 1d4+4 servings of a
magical liquid which will remove a single disease or make the imbiber
immune to one disease exposure for up to a year’s time. The apple and
subsequent unused punch will vanish after one week.</p><p><b>4. Joulupukki Figure.</b> This small wooden toy resembles a goat with a
long beard wearing a fur-trimmed red bag of gifts. Well-behaved children often receive this curio from Krampus and it’s not unusual for some
to collect them. The curio allows the owner to wish for one minor item
and it will appear nearby. Nothing of more than 1 sp in value can ever be
summoned. </p><p><b>5. Eight-Legged Horse.</b> Modeled after Sleipnir from Norse mythology,
this wooden toy is a rare gift to receive from Krampus. As a symbol of
great speed, these curios are favored among those on hastened journeys.
Legend holds that Sleipnir could travel through land, sea, or air and between worlds. The curio may be invoked just once to instantly travel up
to one mile so long as the destination can be visualized. </p><p><b>6. Pine Golem. </b>A favorite of children, these dolls are crafted from pine
cones and usually wear pretty dresses or faux armor. When placed under
sunlight, the dolls will animate and walk around imitating anyone nearby. This, of course, creates all sorts of giggles and amusement, based on
who is being shadowed. Pine golem antics last an hour before their enchantment diminishes completely. </p><p><b>7. Jól Wand. </b>This piece of oak is decorated with sprigs of fir, holly, or
yew and carved with various runes which ask for warmth and protection.
It is well known these are gifted by Krampus when the winter will be
particularly harsh. When receiving a Jól wand, it is best to be conservative when using it. 1d4 times it may be invoked to start a blazing fire
with a simple touch, even with wet wood and kindling. </p><p><b>8. Solstice Orb:</b> The return of the light after the long bitter winter is
something celebrated by many northern villages. This small piece of
clear glass is roughly shaped like a ball and fits in the palm of the hand.
If tossed against a hard object, it will shatter, illuminating a 40-foot area
with soothing light. This radiance will even pierce magical darkness and
last for one hour before expiring completely.</p><p><b>9. Hammer Pendant:</b> These T-shaped charms are thought to be ancient
depictions of the Norse Mjölnir. Krampus has been known to gift three
different types, which vary in value of iron, silver, and gold. These are
greatly prized by hunters for another reason, however. The pendant will
guide one arrow to unerringly strike before becoming mundane. The
ability to return home with food during the winter months is priceless.</p><p><b>10. Tomte Bowl:</b> According to old stories, these wooden dishes were
crafted by mischievous sprites. They appear to be the head of a bearded
elderly man. A bright red cap serves as a lid to the bowl, and when removed warmth will issue forth. If butter is placed inside the bowl, it will
immediately fill with nourishing hot porridge. This ability may be used
2d4 times before the bowl becomes completely mundane. <br /></p><p><b>11. Draugr Effigy:</b> This wooden sculpture resembles a withered corpse
bound in rope. During winter the undead and worse things are known to walk again. The effigy is activated as a ward if
it senses undead nearby. This magical protection afforded to the owner
lasts only one hour before permanently being diminished. During that
time, weaker undead will be oblivious of their presence with stronger
undead disinterested and intelligent undead cautiously indifferent. </p><p><b>12. Holly Ringlet:</b> This magic laurel is crafted with boughs of glossy
green foliage and bright red berries. As legend goes, placing this enchanted ringlet over the mantle invites fairy folk into the home. This is
not cause for concern as the fairies enjoy the warmth of the fire and the
shelter from the cold. 1d4 fairies will be summoned, which equates to
how many days the house will be under a Protection from Evil spell. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD7pzJIsqM30RFugeMwP0uE983s0gmbqrP-PP0Wz5XZbbuhdGkVlrRU2CDCSTl9vrb1pWeOwFQ3QARR22jcRMrPh5TTARyQIOru_wXjpMy12XVtTDD1lnrLy2Xmr7Y3rfjyvTSau4X1dJY7hvblBzMx-g9HQg38qbC88WZI6l5sFJoUoRxGY_77D0_A/s660/WEB-Holly.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="660" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD7pzJIsqM30RFugeMwP0uE983s0gmbqrP-PP0Wz5XZbbuhdGkVlrRU2CDCSTl9vrb1pWeOwFQ3QARR22jcRMrPh5TTARyQIOru_wXjpMy12XVtTDD1lnrLy2Xmr7Y3rfjyvTSau4X1dJY7hvblBzMx-g9HQg38qbC88WZI6l5sFJoUoRxGY_77D0_A/s320/WEB-Holly.webp" width="320" /></a></p><p><br /> <i>This article was originally featured in my 2015 zine, <a href="https://www.ultanya.com/2015/12/tales-from-game-tavern-issue-2.html" target="_blank">Tales from the Game Tavern</a></i><br /></p>Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-50446254086534318722018-09-28T13:22:00.000-04:002018-09-28T14:36:08.506-04:00Review: Tome of Holding<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyeoO7q2kwtw9hl1UQwnpX5wzK5Z3DgMdVcYVeF_9joN5KiS4Kv_ltehbPpBvwgPhtaIhrRv6mNyviFZ7A7pYNHMhXZ7U1J3iK8N8xFENun4XkWutSSG483V6hRq6TXgKgRBnw1SEztlM/s1600/013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyeoO7q2kwtw9hl1UQwnpX5wzK5Z3DgMdVcYVeF_9joN5KiS4Kv_ltehbPpBvwgPhtaIhrRv6mNyviFZ7A7pYNHMhXZ7U1J3iK8N8xFENun4XkWutSSG483V6hRq6TXgKgRBnw1SEztlM/s320/013.jpg" width="320" /></a>In a hoard of gaming accessories, it is hard to stand out in the crowd. I think Alex Ingram has done just that with the <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ingramwoodworking/tome-of-holding-the-hardwood-dice-box-and-rolling">Tome of Holding</a> Kickstarter. I waited to post my review until after I had an opportunity to use this crafty tool during a game session. It did not disappoint, with the consensus this is an amazing product.<br />
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First, let us talk aesthetics though, as the Tome is a gorgeous piece. I am personally a big fan of anything crafted from wood at the game table. When playing RPGs, it is another thing to help with immersion.<br />
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Crafted from cherry, maple or walnut, this is a just beautiful. The inner pages are lovingly fitted with dice holding slots (LOTS), a rolling tray, and even a small space that could serve as a dice jail! Other options include adding a pencil slot. All of these areas are lined with a nice red or green flocking, with a charcoal version a stretch goal!<br />
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The tome is approximately 8” high and 5” wide closed. Perfect for transport to
your favorite gaming venue. Even when fully opened, it does not take up a
premium amount of table space. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmuCYVfG_PRFnm9m95sMxaBg8PDPs2PMORrFo_V7heMpXLJ9Ry0pPySguVLhdBD6IQCwHKE-UepnvrQy2h6z7bagIWlhOveNGNkt2doiqHaYZjs38Rut_DUyj0m_Ezej2o6VeZrwKhFsX/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmuCYVfG_PRFnm9m95sMxaBg8PDPs2PMORrFo_V7heMpXLJ9Ry0pPySguVLhdBD6IQCwHKE-UepnvrQy2h6z7bagIWlhOveNGNkt2doiqHaYZjs38Rut_DUyj0m_Ezej2o6VeZrwKhFsX/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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All the carving is meticulously done with routers designed by Alex during his RPG Coasters campaigns. You can read my review of those <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2016/06/review-rpg-coasters.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2017/03/review-rpg-coasters-2-cthulhu.html">here</a>. I am a big fan of this style as you see enough from a distance to become intrigued. Then when you pick up the product all the details become apparent. For this reason, I believe everything Alex crafts to be wonderful conversation pieces.<br />
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The construction of the Tome is really well done. Everything fits together seamlessly and it looks like a book. The magnets…WOW are they strong! It takes a couple times before you get the gist of opening the Tome. However, rest assured; even if you dropped it from a great height, it is not inadvertently opening!<br />
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As I get older, quality is something that is more important to me. I want things that will last, things I may even pass down to someone else. The Tome of Holding definitely fits that category as a beautiful gaming heirloom.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUz8BmcWALKTt7gbBF074_rH8-iVl4vMnSs7dzdszQ4Srw6ztJv9kswCOyECClIddHryMnvYrl3lX1E29WK2AB1TxEV4lGIuXRE_yBvlOmMM1gSkd6wXQeE5dbFJZqBA-9fFghb6InDigo/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUz8BmcWALKTt7gbBF074_rH8-iVl4vMnSs7dzdszQ4Srw6ztJv9kswCOyECClIddHryMnvYrl3lX1E29WK2AB1TxEV4lGIuXRE_yBvlOmMM1gSkd6wXQeE5dbFJZqBA-9fFghb6InDigo/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hinges are very sturdy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJe6eI08h1D4hdtExb1g1WWfWfkM_AdnjzC8suzAa4qUw9s05vidy4VZP5AdsmuOZ0y2wIyQbOErgNTB2WegvF9WlgBHaCk9FWc7kXU6gDiCL05moVLkKI0UpDhxdgs9jlCxESPZ1qRFT/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJe6eI08h1D4hdtExb1g1WWfWfkM_AdnjzC8suzAa4qUw9s05vidy4VZP5AdsmuOZ0y2wIyQbOErgNTB2WegvF9WlgBHaCk9FWc7kXU6gDiCL05moVLkKI0UpDhxdgs9jlCxESPZ1qRFT/s320/010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex is using magnets +5 on these!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tvrd6h7Er9PYkx0RiMV3pVAhmAk6JJRcSi7M24dSWatkv7HdlkQYyVzpO_y7R0I-FPjh3OIHf_O_9KjEHRGn7b0zogKTdsNCWN3n7-ffWRNDH-c1EMlD-Ba5LrEohdgkMgNVHvkmYqWW/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tvrd6h7Er9PYkx0RiMV3pVAhmAk6JJRcSi7M24dSWatkv7HdlkQYyVzpO_y7R0I-FPjh3OIHf_O_9KjEHRGn7b0zogKTdsNCWN3n7-ffWRNDH-c1EMlD-Ba5LrEohdgkMgNVHvkmYqWW/s320/012.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a great addition to any gaming space.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBWmQKGjCpZaAeCVNstCH6tecPfM8K5wo5RHCoPEl0BQtYwLGQ71U5UKVVqcu1kM4JFenEC86jjybEyNpr4VVOFbuJyxE-NTIe2mOWK2cUyYGYCdLICX44-M9pZCxu9c0mo99LvIfMFy2/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBWmQKGjCpZaAeCVNstCH6tecPfM8K5wo5RHCoPEl0BQtYwLGQ71U5UKVVqcu1kM4JFenEC86jjybEyNpr4VVOFbuJyxE-NTIe2mOWK2cUyYGYCdLICX44-M9pZCxu9c0mo99LvIfMFy2/s320/006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tome is a perfect conversation piece.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CmhZcsoq0WtO_xR9k_SNhebQ7XC5D1xpAJJxAd64CRom1vpiUEmQpyZZcBJp397fHXSjDN-ZL5kLUjSn393o_-EhJ73RTxAeWUTQAa4cYXr-e4EKWL5URl6aWgT7PctysCOJBOnXwOjk/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CmhZcsoq0WtO_xR9k_SNhebQ7XC5D1xpAJJxAd64CRom1vpiUEmQpyZZcBJp397fHXSjDN-ZL5kLUjSn393o_-EhJ73RTxAeWUTQAa4cYXr-e4EKWL5URl6aWgT7PctysCOJBOnXwOjk/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tome looks great on any shelf!</td></tr>
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The <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ingramwoodworking/tome-of-holding-the-hardwood-dice-box-and-rolling">Kickstarter</a> is currently live and funded. With an estimated delivery of July 2019, this may be the perfect present next year for that gamer that has everything. Check it out!<br />
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-50740521954708595472018-08-23T12:29:00.000-04:002018-08-23T12:31:45.647-04:00Dragons: Unique Breath WeaponsDragons. The most iconic monster ever. Their name is in the title of the D&D game. Over the years, there have been countless iterations. Admittedly, I have never been very keen with how they are represented. In my own campaign world, dragons are separated into two piles. The published versions, which are the younger of their ilk. Then my home-brewed dragons, which are the antediluvian horrors of the realm. These are elder creatures, which have seen kingdoms rise and fall, and cataclysms change the face of the planet.<br />
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These dragons have special abilities, which make them nigh impossible to defeat. Even the mightiest of heroes have scars both physical and emotional after crossing their paths. You would be wise to take the advice of that old woman in the tavern. Stay away from them. It’s a fool’s errand. The horror she witnessed so many years ago…it is true.<br />
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Below are four types of special breath weapon to use when beefing up your own dragons. These will help keep even the most veteran (or meta gaming) players on their toes. In addition, they will help forge legends at your table, untarnished by time!<br />
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<b>Unique Breath Weapons</b><br />
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<b>1. Double Breath</b> (Recharge 3-6): this dragon was born with twin organs, which produce its breath weapon. This causes the creature to regenerate the use of its attack much faster.<br />
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<b>Special:</b> If the dragon has legendary actions, it can spend two points to use both organs at once. This produces a super breath weapon, which does double the normal damage. Afterward the recharge becomes to 5-6 for two rounds. This dragon should have terror heaped upon its name.<br />
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<b>2. Pinpoint Breath:</b> this dragon is an expert at using its breath weapon to hit small targets. This power disregards whether it normally has a line, cone, or cloud attack. The dragon can choose to use its breath normally or focus it into a singular attack. The target has disadvantage on its saving throw to avoid this damage.<br />
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<b>Special:</b> If the dragon has legendary actions, it can spend one point to double the range of its pinpoint breath for the next attack. If two points are spent then the range is tripled. This is a devastating tactic when combined with the dragon’s ability to keep distance with flight.<br />
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<b>3. Incendiary Breath:</b> this dragon’s breath weapon also contains a sticky, adhesive goo, which ignites when exposed to air. The terrible smelling jelly burns extremely hot, doing 5d6 fire damage every round. A creature can end this damage by using its action to make a DC 15 Dexterity check to scrape off the burning substance.<br />
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<b>Special:</b> If the dragon has legendary actions, it can spend one point to cough up extra incendiary goo on its next breath attack. The damage caused by it will then ignore fire resistance. If two points are spent, also increase the damage to 10d6. <br />
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<b>4. Smog Breath:</b> this dragon was born with a second breath organ, which has a congenital defect. Instead of fire, it produces a fog of toxic smoke and ash particles. Every time the dragon uses its normal breath weapon the smog also issues forth. This 30-foot cone causes targets to cough and gag uncontrollably. Each creature in that area must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or become unable to breathe. A creature affected in this way is <i>Incapacitated </i>and <i>Suffocating</i>. As long as it is conscious, a creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on it on a success. The <i>Lesser Restoration</i> spell can also end the effect on a creature.<br />
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<b>Special: </b>If the dragon has legendary actions, it can spend two points to cause its next smog attack to linger. The radius is 30-feet anywhere within the range of the attack. This area is heavily obscured until a wind of at least 10 miles per hour blows it away, or until the duration ends.<br />
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Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-54475789020422925562018-07-16T12:23:00.001-04:002018-07-16T12:32:05.714-04:00Review: Hand of the Zombie Dice Tray<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp8PCMLF22ZMuNNn40uH404fnjE_oPHBBilHSIeqJjdc-CkAcd1vh_v2O0orlKrcbfLicrGi_W78BREHV8HiyLzjjRyxYMCeuTQowsaM8q3gx0WvBC_LGOJpZ9mspuHiY3nQCrlrwE6fz/s1600/Ztray8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp8PCMLF22ZMuNNn40uH404fnjE_oPHBBilHSIeqJjdc-CkAcd1vh_v2O0orlKrcbfLicrGi_W78BREHV8HiyLzjjRyxYMCeuTQowsaM8q3gx0WvBC_LGOJpZ9mspuHiY3nQCrlrwE6fz/s200/Ztray8.jpg" width="150" /></a>Recently my <i>Hand of the Zombie Dice Tray </i>arrived from <a href="https://darksilverforge.com/">Darksilver Forge</a>. I wanted to take some pictures and share them with everyone. This is definitely a very cool piece of gaming swag. At 6” in width and 12” in length, you really have a nice runway to roll dice in. The design also allows for horizontal or vertical use, which is good when table space is at a premium. <br />
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I really like how the red interior is in stark contrast to the synthetic black leather. In addition, the zombie hand is just metal as hell. It's almost beckoning you to roll 20s! In a sea of game aids and various table tools this one makes the grade. If you're looking for a gift for that gamer that has everything the <i>Hand of the Zombie Dice Tray </i>is a good choice.<br />
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As of this posting, the tray appears to be on sale. For more information, or to purchase your own check the <a href="https://darksilverforge.com/collections/dice-trays/products/hand-of-the-zombie-dice-tray">product page here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of the packaging.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5C9553_XZM1nL89cc7xdkhk5oZPNOIWeIq0_XnS3cVyeJSydyEIFKbM6k-jAH5-oKZM1bAsLytYO9zrzkuW4CJ6pbfi3v20H-bucMM81EZHV1j-7JQ-gZShIPzzeal9PUoidf05Y1UumB/s1600/Ztray2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5C9553_XZM1nL89cc7xdkhk5oZPNOIWeIq0_XnS3cVyeJSydyEIFKbM6k-jAH5-oKZM1bAsLytYO9zrzkuW4CJ6pbfi3v20H-bucMM81EZHV1j-7JQ-gZShIPzzeal9PUoidf05Y1UumB/s320/Ztray2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back of the packaging.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkTpvozXCGYEdBY-ugrEdh6BNNqSw8bZolLklMcHmSgmFfagTf1shHrOl02SJsM45swijaF-kR3sPF2ir0qFHtgZhYEvesRUbntYNLYU9uGtfw-7nigi00irdCNyodYc__V-LVeB3y9jP/s1600/Ztray3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkTpvozXCGYEdBY-ugrEdh6BNNqSw8bZolLklMcHmSgmFfagTf1shHrOl02SJsM45swijaF-kR3sPF2ir0qFHtgZhYEvesRUbntYNLYU9uGtfw-7nigi00irdCNyodYc__V-LVeB3y9jP/s320/Ztray3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tray was sealed very nicely</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtak_9v4HHJtl-r-dbHgUWQvkGmkHhyphenhyphenYTWUvr8AZHHfIC3c7b8c8HV2A1PrrtfotYxCnjpEotsolzPNxcJn5AFH8tweOm-ruqR13lP-lShu_DdsQw8GdK9jP5gwts-ugCrV2ibjZOvJRi/s1600/Ztray5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtak_9v4HHJtl-r-dbHgUWQvkGmkHhyphenhyphenYTWUvr8AZHHfIC3c7b8c8HV2A1PrrtfotYxCnjpEotsolzPNxcJn5AFH8tweOm-ruqR13lP-lShu_DdsQw8GdK9jP5gwts-ugCrV2ibjZOvJRi/s320/Ztray5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the 1" depth</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoipwyW6RmAFurr3Hl5ZRWGWN87j5fyWmmkSIc_9VaZxy5bgFi1TWSNqnz0rdNgASPfjsSVZtBX_T6JMa-6OvqA9MPifWitxEZnBZoTffJop5oX8h__64QRSpvyJPeVNQMByCuvarOFQE/s1600/Ztray6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoipwyW6RmAFurr3Hl5ZRWGWN87j5fyWmmkSIc_9VaZxy5bgFi1TWSNqnz0rdNgASPfjsSVZtBX_T6JMa-6OvqA9MPifWitxEZnBZoTffJop5oX8h__64QRSpvyJPeVNQMByCuvarOFQE/s320/Ztray6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The well crafted stitching</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBebm2cnMi_oF9tIJ2cxgIaGLf3IOpq54DJjF3trxl2K1LA9bg7mP2f6ux9yLcrUyaEwyR9NsmF4O7Te3-6DR_r_VD_1FipAZBOvsMBTbl_csH8VUOWpKh0M1NcDrWm8iN36IObRULbiji/s1600/Ztray7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBebm2cnMi_oF9tIJ2cxgIaGLf3IOpq54DJjF3trxl2K1LA9bg7mP2f6ux9yLcrUyaEwyR9NsmF4O7Te3-6DR_r_VD_1FipAZBOvsMBTbl_csH8VUOWpKh0M1NcDrWm8iN36IObRULbiji/s320/Ztray7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tray fits behind a DM screen just fine</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCeYpnbYva4IM8GOHY4xwpBycCDZ3OrvtauUF5EZfIAeetG-EAMdbCJua7zpheq2Etym5PuRUH7c5zU66N8SVHzyEnzH0ixaz77pVCXdCIft163wjOYyu1LiAzpvP_7UOB_htQF547H34f/s1600/Ztray9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCeYpnbYva4IM8GOHY4xwpBycCDZ3OrvtauUF5EZfIAeetG-EAMdbCJua7zpheq2Etym5PuRUH7c5zU66N8SVHzyEnzH0ixaz77pVCXdCIft163wjOYyu1LiAzpvP_7UOB_htQF547H34f/s320/Ztray9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the tray depth</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR86ew9nuNh08tNSQ2fOkmbiqnwbHWqGmu_0N5IQX1JSrd7Kanp6z1HihMaetf9Igsn9n5M5kt6-fUnCeM24rFoDdXnvQXEzWTtxkl9MBnfk-B_Q01oNneMJxWlGFfYgQkQWJxS31OPjtV/s1600/Ztray4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR86ew9nuNh08tNSQ2fOkmbiqnwbHWqGmu_0N5IQX1JSrd7Kanp6z1HihMaetf9Igsn9n5M5kt6-fUnCeM24rFoDdXnvQXEzWTtxkl9MBnfk-B_Q01oNneMJxWlGFfYgQkQWJxS31OPjtV/s320/Ztray4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tray is a very nice conversation piece</td></tr>
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-22757205479578392402018-06-26T11:16:00.003-04:002018-06-26T11:32:14.281-04:00Review: Fiend Folio Dice Cup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlRR6k9as9fjhWFlx8_3BJ4iD8DfhXnyAzcTE7SrNM5nVqRPfCTx0GAexjGY6T333I5iklrvzkorxnbFck7O8xxytrKk3SLu-bZYteBWNXiYk3_lcQkTeTbfZLlMvWDO7SHdSzu3LmEMZ/s1600/FF+Cup+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlRR6k9as9fjhWFlx8_3BJ4iD8DfhXnyAzcTE7SrNM5nVqRPfCTx0GAexjGY6T333I5iklrvzkorxnbFck7O8xxytrKk3SLu-bZYteBWNXiYk3_lcQkTeTbfZLlMvWDO7SHdSzu3LmEMZ/s320/FF+Cup+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Last year I reviewed the <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2017/02/review-demon-idol-dice-cup.html">Demon Idol </a>dice cup by <a href="http://www.fosterleathercraft.com/">Foster Leathercraft</a>. Well I decided to commission a new one and wow it's just epic. This cup is an interpretation of the original wraparound cover for the 1981 Fiend Folio by artist Emmanuel. I will never forget seeing that bright blue book with the awesome skeletal creature the first time. As a young DM the githyanki really resonated with me. They were alien like with withered skin stretched over bone, wielding super awesome swords! For the uninitiated, the githyanki are astral sea dwellers who were once enslaved by a malevolent and cthulhu-esque race known as the illithid or mind flayers.<br />
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Just like my last dice cup, this is a very well-constructed item. The design features beautiful stitching, vibrant colors, and just screams old school Dungeons & Dragons. I wanted to add some bling to make it really eye catching so there are multiple gems riveted into the leather. After all, githyanki have to look good in their bejeweled armor. This cup is a tad taller then the last one, which will allow for more dice to fill it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNmZv0Z9IthTJ8GaWgC6qAcChB0T9bQQW0qUo60upsRZF-wiuqcGY7ZAbss9kcQjHeXh0gm29yW1h5d_2wlEp2Hx6S9hzaU5Qjtz4xJhkJ2kulCFXjGMO2DctWlSE5P1wzn_3kSQzs5b4/s1600/FF+Cup+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNmZv0Z9IthTJ8GaWgC6qAcChB0T9bQQW0qUo60upsRZF-wiuqcGY7ZAbss9kcQjHeXh0gm29yW1h5d_2wlEp2Hx6S9hzaU5Qjtz4xJhkJ2kulCFXjGMO2DctWlSE5P1wzn_3kSQzs5b4/s320/FF+Cup+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up view of the front</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknGpfxIONIE_ZX-jKnNLpKWJ0aUlLGmFMT1E6yEmjWRGCbTrYmSz385gX6EHVgQvc8dAvCzIf79Xb2U29WAfb3IAxz8Fbh_e_igzOlepJenLf3sANmexgMvB_JwHnZHJIdyd3G6t9avY_/s1600/FF+Cup+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknGpfxIONIE_ZX-jKnNLpKWJ0aUlLGmFMT1E6yEmjWRGCbTrYmSz385gX6EHVgQvc8dAvCzIf79Xb2U29WAfb3IAxz8Fbh_e_igzOlepJenLf3sANmexgMvB_JwHnZHJIdyd3G6t9avY_/s320/FF+Cup+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up view of the back</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBYPqSmLs8nELDZCTPOduedpJoFDjBMDOeoGzDwjtITXggYhJhXJRdHYxitSNqBWMyPIRjPb3UuL1Z8jx0AQR_3bxcOxYtgH1P65LCCxUbxdn7MufzLrJ0GLJ-ydf2899FGAYYXtELRPE/s1600/FF+Cup+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBYPqSmLs8nELDZCTPOduedpJoFDjBMDOeoGzDwjtITXggYhJhXJRdHYxitSNqBWMyPIRjPb3UuL1Z8jx0AQR_3bxcOxYtgH1P65LCCxUbxdn7MufzLrJ0GLJ-ydf2899FGAYYXtELRPE/s320/FF+Cup+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up view of the lid</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaDPJrZa5_EEH8ickkEADh37bkUiJpJHTIh9HFaoCimgCPYd1bnzQP0vaguflAYXw5u2ch1m9boGyVHdRpudV2NmenlWPXYcUs78mKIm9yIRrIQxDcWludEtGHkR7FRb3rNIPqGEkK_1w/s1600/FF+Cup+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaDPJrZa5_EEH8ickkEADh37bkUiJpJHTIh9HFaoCimgCPYd1bnzQP0vaguflAYXw5u2ch1m9boGyVHdRpudV2NmenlWPXYcUs78mKIm9yIRrIQxDcWludEtGHkR7FRb3rNIPqGEkK_1w/s320/FF+Cup+5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The deep interior for dice</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHhUfP4Yzy3HWl3kin3nb-0qkhvJl0Al6XOTdp1TDKef-LHo_BrhpD9ju_SvIksFMxbW_Uy1V9GBzkwJb8yiP3lJElyjq-HQHT6aSL_vKC9UHCoxQNllDMGpb4DEOk_eyBrk_LjyJnRkD/s1600/FF+Cup+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHhUfP4Yzy3HWl3kin3nb-0qkhvJl0Al6XOTdp1TDKef-LHo_BrhpD9ju_SvIksFMxbW_Uy1V9GBzkwJb8yiP3lJElyjq-HQHT6aSL_vKC9UHCoxQNllDMGpb4DEOk_eyBrk_LjyJnRkD/s320/FF+Cup+6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dice cup bottom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyfk1ugT3DEjzSygGoTOZGiFVup3sWVeGS9Ik96R0VxXffVOa5RON5U38hW6JYoNL91wFy8fL7IawJA9daEg9wAkaTCcIc2szZ0WkTXET2fx4aMTIDgVafcaWZFiyrG5ts-b5EtnSxu_u/s1600/FF+CUp+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyfk1ugT3DEjzSygGoTOZGiFVup3sWVeGS9Ik96R0VxXffVOa5RON5U38hW6JYoNL91wFy8fL7IawJA9daEg9wAkaTCcIc2szZ0WkTXET2fx4aMTIDgVafcaWZFiyrG5ts-b5EtnSxu_u/s320/FF+CUp+8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sword and skull</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TzROimYAzkg0X4sBGx7qexVK50fiVUpHt1CKTFoOF6Apnucre9LFP-rXC7Z64tbhsreeDG2-XjxNTxT6q6-ES0N8yoGixmlLxddkORjJpDdw0wJikTxCnmiN5C20UTuJ0Yj-I-Qhwid-/s1600/FF+Cup+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TzROimYAzkg0X4sBGx7qexVK50fiVUpHt1CKTFoOF6Apnucre9LFP-rXC7Z64tbhsreeDG2-XjxNTxT6q6-ES0N8yoGixmlLxddkORjJpDdw0wJikTxCnmiN5C20UTuJ0Yj-I-Qhwid-/s320/FF+Cup+9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHEyXfj34GgOG9MBNtJzlNsJxaQZLjZ_JMf3jRY6f1UlJOVXBPsFYcbemSTaZdxRQdjPX_47ZQrnNHRx-sAkh_zkSd40Y5ihrwWiBweDr-mIsAsqx1d93-JktlsP5oAuH1Pbl2WHIebHD9/s1600/FF+Cup+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHEyXfj34GgOG9MBNtJzlNsJxaQZLjZ_JMf3jRY6f1UlJOVXBPsFYcbemSTaZdxRQdjPX_47ZQrnNHRx-sAkh_zkSd40Y5ihrwWiBweDr-mIsAsqx1d93-JktlsP5oAuH1Pbl2WHIebHD9/s320/FF+Cup+10.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The infamous githyanki</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiauZLbvwoqwgdxQoDS7ENPxMh1Gm7pM2bRdEMFO7WVwvlEFUpsWn3Qty032AAtfpRLVW5WOKFgxKwz_jZZ3_fgelKdOzoYq4XqrKJ-9nDTr5CGDpsJMwgpQeNpB-FlYwEXnPKbKCKCgCyX/s1600/FF+CUp+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiauZLbvwoqwgdxQoDS7ENPxMh1Gm7pM2bRdEMFO7WVwvlEFUpsWn3Qty032AAtfpRLVW5WOKFgxKwz_jZZ3_fgelKdOzoYq4XqrKJ-9nDTr5CGDpsJMwgpQeNpB-FlYwEXnPKbKCKCgCyX/s320/FF+CUp+11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Size comparison</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I'm very happy with this amazing piece of gaming swag and already dreaming up my next one. Foster Leathercraft offers other leather goods and is more than capable of doing custom work. Please visit their <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FosterLeathercraft?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Etsy store</a> to view more fantastic gaming accessories, or perhaps order your own dice cup!<br />
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<b>Githyanki History</b><br />
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Dungeons and Dragons players were first treated to the githyanki by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Stross">Charles Stross</a> in the pages of White Dwarf magazine. The artwork of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russ_Nicholson">Russ Nicholson</a> really brought them to life. Furthermore, the word githyanki was originally coined by no other then George R. R. Martin himself in his novel <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dying-Light-George-R-Martin/dp/0553383086">Dying of the Light</a>. Now decades later, the githyanki have survived multiple iterations of the D&D game. They symbolize everything that is metal, lethal and off the hook.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-BRyLQB1gT7GjiV0AimfC-Q8n1og0bH3dhT_EnrYZnVgXaJC8aDOLVFBkfhc-l2eeicpWGyk2sC3d9zLppu2Zg4zEb5CXD6jZ-pVI0sBYxC-POfyk1LddR_f4sS-xqAQrx1uQ9IGwo7w/s1600/Fiend+Factory+White+Dwarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1113" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-BRyLQB1gT7GjiV0AimfC-Q8n1og0bH3dhT_EnrYZnVgXaJC8aDOLVFBkfhc-l2eeicpWGyk2sC3d9zLppu2Zg4zEb5CXD6jZ-pVI0sBYxC-POfyk1LddR_f4sS-xqAQrx1uQ9IGwo7w/s400/Fiend+Factory+White+Dwarf.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Page from the Fiend Factory, White Dwarf #12, 1979</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlI_OlnZowy_3uPWn78SUmlJw6g4hYQ1YTXPJt0oojloV2nuOvXHXTFoozuMLf-p6y4CWC-_l7BsfcKAKnRLPAOH6fufzYpFR9y01lPGfir3Zi37QIVH1DIPOC0SMBUg03LZTuINLE80PU/s1600/Wrap+Around.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlI_OlnZowy_3uPWn78SUmlJw6g4hYQ1YTXPJt0oojloV2nuOvXHXTFoozuMLf-p6y4CWC-_l7BsfcKAKnRLPAOH6fufzYpFR9y01lPGfir3Zi37QIVH1DIPOC0SMBUg03LZTuINLE80PU/s320/Wrap+Around.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original wraparound cover for the 1981 Fiend Folio by artist Emmanuel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiw0lUEhDN6NQGVLrmPbKFg4sJcqdd7bKAnyfWFdKsTTvwAwae1ATguzcH0PSHB4XcjZPaxZzDPjN3RrODiY97bq7iv-uiH4ikk49zXmcDTkoB4scGQK1JJjOW4aPg4VzJZ9uccOUTKmjE/s1600/Brood+Ventricle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1132" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiw0lUEhDN6NQGVLrmPbKFg4sJcqdd7bKAnyfWFdKsTTvwAwae1ATguzcH0PSHB4XcjZPaxZzDPjN3RrODiY97bq7iv-uiH4ikk49zXmcDTkoB4scGQK1JJjOW4aPg4VzJZ9uccOUTKmjE/s400/Brood+Ventricle.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Brood Ventricle adventure. <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=16rmsW1mmpLXypNTmegLJkhAXh5B5TAFT">Click to download</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-54739381079786639722018-06-06T16:12:00.002-04:002018-06-06T18:46:54.677-04:00Save Your Game Session: DM Burnout<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6n44WnELQ82Z9mthSZ3q44rr1Mpk3hYCygaqjTeowFXYjr7yvarizWGA9PFjmbI35-NICAh1yxbPxMUGz6ab0WS8YtR1dr42VY5e_W5TD84KU1u-XHAZZ5mElP4giXyWbhSs1dlaGwvfS/s1600/Dice+Tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6n44WnELQ82Z9mthSZ3q44rr1Mpk3hYCygaqjTeowFXYjr7yvarizWGA9PFjmbI35-NICAh1yxbPxMUGz6ab0WS8YtR1dr42VY5e_W5TD84KU1u-XHAZZ5mElP4giXyWbhSs1dlaGwvfS/s320/Dice+Tower.jpg" width="240" /></a>It has happened to us all. You scheduled the game weeks ago. It is finally here. You just worked a gazillion hours or were up to a million o’clock the night before. You are tired, not in the mood, but don't want to cancel the game. After all, it is super hard to get the gang together!<br />
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Everyone arrives. You catch up, since you have not interacted which each other beyond social media. Some time passes and everyone is finally ready to start. You feel a little better now, a tad more relaxed. An hour into the game you have the 1000-mile stare. You start hand waving things you should not. Monster stats become meaningless. Hell, you just want them to die and the game to end.<br />
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Someone is building dice towers. Maybe someone else is on his or her phone. There is almost definitely someone doodling. Yikes, can you salvage this? Yes, you can! Remember Dungeons & Dragons is a storytelling game. If you are tired and the game is dragging, it is time to get back to basics. Referencing character sheets and rules minutia is enough to cast a <i>Sleep Spell</i> on anyone.<br />
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I have been though the scenario outlined above many times. To escape the mire I developed some tools to get me back on track. The first one is a character card. On it, I have bullet points, which detail the motivations, goals, quirks, and weaknesses of each character. When things start to drag, or the scenario I prepared is not turning out great, I turn to those cards. After all this is their story, and you are just helping to direct it.<br />
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Players will immediately perk up when suddenly passed the story ball. I have to tell you, that energy at the game table is very contagious. As Dungeon Master, you should be on the lookout for when the players pass you the story ball also. That cool idea they just came up with? Go with it! Especially if you are feeling session burnout and things are bland.<br />
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Nothing is more exciting than when the players take the story in some unexpected direction. It is fun to be surprised as the Dungeon Master occasionally. That is the essence of collaborative story telling. It makes you not have to do all the heavy lifting, especially if you are having an off night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQB073W50WQXbfuCLmo0QNRHYujgI_qMlVOXE72cAcGPwTNhDYKGqnwLXD5fBi6umUYUpjAUoArZZ-kJ_Qdgf4p4NZ83CncEu4u7ROTqoICiZo2nvfMyHbN4JUHrXcOJmbWr2Flp0z_qgq/s1600/Coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="835" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQB073W50WQXbfuCLmo0QNRHYujgI_qMlVOXE72cAcGPwTNhDYKGqnwLXD5fBi6umUYUpjAUoArZZ-kJ_Qdgf4p4NZ83CncEu4u7ROTqoICiZo2nvfMyHbN4JUHrXcOJmbWr2Flp0z_qgq/s320/Coffee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Another technique I use when tired is intravenous coffee. OK, jokes aside I have yet another set of cards on hand. On them, I have detailed in one paragraph or less, various colorful NPCs and points of interest. These immediately create a “shiny” for the players to latch onto. Some are outlandish, like a kobold selling dyed scarfs in the middle of the dungeon, whoa…what is her story? Others are just fascinating, like the countenance of a man upon the door of a rotted cottage, his eyes almost lifelike.<br />
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When dreaming these up I have no idea where they may go. This is by design. I have even run entire game sessions this way, setting aside my original plans. They have created some of the most memorable encounters. However, most importantly they helped to get this tired Dungeon Master back on track. I hope this post inspires you with some of these ideas. In the instances where life has you failing your tired save, the game sessions are salvageable. You just need to jump-start your engine!<br />
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If these solutions don’t work for you, it may be best to end your game early and regroup at a later date. It is definitely not worth forging on if everyone is not having a good time. If you are experiencing dungeon master burnout constantly, it may be time for a break. Maybe schedule a board game night. Alternatively, switch things up and run a low crunch one shot to rekindle that game master fire. For some it may be simple as handing over the reins to another game master for a while.<br />
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If you have any tips or tricks to bounce back from a dragging game session, please feel free to share! Just remember the challenge not unique to you. We all have been there!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrJbZNzO8rfiqk5lwvsxYyuC0ZAmEURuq7XdYlTQYrEcpjQX4Q-n3NkBPF5fjjVEoOeaNzczIgSgJ_d4pIufQFdbWU1GooIU-bQuTk2SJS8yyW2dMFwB5DO8zUT2GnG9zD2FIB95Rg8gh/s1600/Sleep+spell+Larry+Elmore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="729" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrJbZNzO8rfiqk5lwvsxYyuC0ZAmEURuq7XdYlTQYrEcpjQX4Q-n3NkBPF5fjjVEoOeaNzczIgSgJ_d4pIufQFdbWU1GooIU-bQuTk2SJS8yyW2dMFwB5DO8zUT2GnG9zD2FIB95Rg8gh/s320/Sleep+spell+Larry+Elmore.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleep Spell - Larry Elmore (1983)</td></tr>
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-83469789127420823342018-05-29T15:25:00.001-04:002018-05-29T16:04:37.547-04:00A Dungeons & Dragons Birthday Party<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9boRIdQLVj4e8nN6PWWlgdmCOCRrmc697rFzRy_cGoEuvUPFemouGeFhqq7yh2lGpkU-inq9R9YAUPHmfM-ldeMIGtDXLosvJlfvY0QxjdiKrfEpems8mZACkb4fKqw8xsDUqO5vcfNC/s1600/Birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9boRIdQLVj4e8nN6PWWlgdmCOCRrmc697rFzRy_cGoEuvUPFemouGeFhqq7yh2lGpkU-inq9R9YAUPHmfM-ldeMIGtDXLosvJlfvY0QxjdiKrfEpems8mZACkb4fKqw8xsDUqO5vcfNC/s320/Birthday.jpg" width="240" /></a>This past weekend I took part in amazing party for our friend’s son who was turning 9-years old. It all started last year when my wife and I offered the use of the <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/02/introducing-game-tavern.html">Game Tavern</a> for his birthday. The family lives 6-hours away, but that did not stop them making sure this epic quest occurred! Our friend Tanya has always been super crafty, with many amazing parties under her belt. Her son Brokk comes from his love of Dungeons & Dragons honestly, as I have been playing the game with his dad for decades.<br />
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Most of our friends have kids between the ages of 6 and 13; so many different activities would need planning. Tanya definitely delivered that and then some, which I will detail below. If you are planning a similar party for your own children, I hope this post serves as inspiration. This is the stuff of legends and great memories!<br />
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The party started with outside activities. Since there were many younger kids, they were ready to jump right into the fun. In addition, it was important for the older kids to get some energy out also. When it comes to D&D, the mind can only absorb what the seat can endure. This could not ring any truer with children and teens. Below are pictures of the various crafts and activities all put together for the party.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpwqmWZhSbYzk6q-N9Uz1Gvuhi0-ulAw4y9A7X7WCGnGgyqZ7-_QhrQMeL_3x5XLr_L80H99xDLy8ZoRw7pBdIZjj7AI28Jn4_6Jowzxj55sfdnWrAgcjCH63nJGEtUiFnQ7jppenkl8m/s1600/Shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1600" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpwqmWZhSbYzk6q-N9Uz1Gvuhi0-ulAw4y9A7X7WCGnGgyqZ7-_QhrQMeL_3x5XLr_L80H99xDLy8ZoRw7pBdIZjj7AI28Jn4_6Jowzxj55sfdnWrAgcjCH63nJGEtUiFnQ7jppenkl8m/s320/Shirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The character sheet shirt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDOr-ADngjUXx8o9ZLRgaySpaPEX_RNmWRO-XmdF_NeMfdQpa9T20yBVBIme7sos2CvIKhdMSkUkNV2Fi9KCFVSjN1Zy2GI2wDFodfrjBlHUKkwd4pyusSKIoU2JGpt8Zt0bcuwPveOytB/s1600/Dice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDOr-ADngjUXx8o9ZLRgaySpaPEX_RNmWRO-XmdF_NeMfdQpa9T20yBVBIme7sos2CvIKhdMSkUkNV2Fi9KCFVSjN1Zy2GI2wDFodfrjBlHUKkwd4pyusSKIoU2JGpt8Zt0bcuwPveOytB/s320/Dice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of the children received these home made dice chests.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuR-ib5Ko9v4WhRdi1e72WTPd7GdWPhed8HWFjQDQ5gmYwK0ifF8jVwEzVDm0mZ3KyQlZ53EnsrS-RJLm6XNlQL_rvdZiufVvLhhj5ojl0F1oPpUcZlddnqFm6zhx6KMo8QHvM2XvFcCmj/s1600/Dice+Closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuR-ib5Ko9v4WhRdi1e72WTPd7GdWPhed8HWFjQDQ5gmYwK0ifF8jVwEzVDm0mZ3KyQlZ53EnsrS-RJLm6XNlQL_rvdZiufVvLhhj5ojl0F1oPpUcZlddnqFm6zhx6KMo8QHvM2XvFcCmj/s320/Dice+Closeup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each chest is guarded by a dragon. Their curled tail holds a D20!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIBdZWZqGjzspOWL2BQ-q9L4tC0Ghyphenhyphen6omJSSgsKI2Bu1EX857jLEenZSbTCUNCBZYbI2vwJ8l1F1PrjsCtuTMfh047Kxafn71997ENIgbbehBFNqRNPbxF6wxbPq75FsdKF_LUw-ysqaS/s1600/Dice+Inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIBdZWZqGjzspOWL2BQ-q9L4tC0Ghyphenhyphen6omJSSgsKI2Bu1EX857jLEenZSbTCUNCBZYbI2vwJ8l1F1PrjsCtuTMfh047Kxafn71997ENIgbbehBFNqRNPbxF6wxbPq75FsdKF_LUw-ysqaS/s320/Dice+Inside.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the dice chests, complete with Brokk's birthday d6s.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGF5w6lgiOth0tQoegFYBgJ89Yie2CRBMfKEnIM6Nzmt0ta6XVFUF_lrx4jw95Oue45dkhUH_gT-X-1y7d55Dn0802cpGEot3nW0RnlbmjdJpXKTsqfDW27YBCzZzuJjDQpkUJk-rqwQX/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGF5w6lgiOth0tQoegFYBgJ89Yie2CRBMfKEnIM6Nzmt0ta6XVFUF_lrx4jw95Oue45dkhUH_gT-X-1y7d55Dn0802cpGEot3nW0RnlbmjdJpXKTsqfDW27YBCzZzuJjDQpkUJk-rqwQX/s320/1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside included a bouncy joust with rings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3s24kgrjiUpMwCh8ZSMtrSFYAc1I3wtrJPR9pKedgmOMWS7FXaVgeL3krE31tZ92lKnyoNBcyCVeMMGZDzN8uo_R89QHnpOtipAFHHHS2HnxNaxmtVFyFyczKGHEo-1Ho9vHyjDiqDT3/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3s24kgrjiUpMwCh8ZSMtrSFYAc1I3wtrJPR9pKedgmOMWS7FXaVgeL3krE31tZ92lKnyoNBcyCVeMMGZDzN8uo_R89QHnpOtipAFHHHS2HnxNaxmtVFyFyczKGHEo-1Ho9vHyjDiqDT3/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A refreshment tent.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySsGBzrf3TdLIfWiWUWQ5HQ5Jul1jBdQ52_g-yXRduHA0YmSHUpepck1uOhCdSZcsj7DinXVij639-ozI2FgjO39hUHzZ0cNfT7E2z0iEJenpv7JiNF9JoreARvqUzVp4Ssmhi72qyNyM/s1600/Weird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySsGBzrf3TdLIfWiWUWQ5HQ5Jul1jBdQ52_g-yXRduHA0YmSHUpepck1uOhCdSZcsj7DinXVij639-ozI2FgjO39hUHzZ0cNfT7E2z0iEJenpv7JiNF9JoreARvqUzVp4Ssmhi72qyNyM/s320/Weird.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottled Water Weird was on hand!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4xyRp15rORk99eTuyYFb0-dpltGCSUSXLdpK_ZWtjrb8_GIzdC8x7aFoS5A4pyjSJruiv2GWMHaIHjjOkxC-ohOQPbzuu2xgmN3-Jl4ajCLIP3OXPNQGlIjbTgJQJb_XiN6P9Anffn1J/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4xyRp15rORk99eTuyYFb0-dpltGCSUSXLdpK_ZWtjrb8_GIzdC8x7aFoS5A4pyjSJruiv2GWMHaIHjjOkxC-ohOQPbzuu2xgmN3-Jl4ajCLIP3OXPNQGlIjbTgJQJb_XiN6P9Anffn1J/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An area for birthday presents (loot) to be placed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4d65CngXmDw5Ka78NZSWvWv5f-nnFraj5DIzOQ9pwwfSy-dwh-xvhx6LG6tpj67VywmPsXrqXHyXM13AMCfygF07Syiz1AJoRi07hcvbn_37QqXBnmSAIELjV6VP47phic8vv_1nxMyd/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4d65CngXmDw5Ka78NZSWvWv5f-nnFraj5DIzOQ9pwwfSy-dwh-xvhx6LG6tpj67VywmPsXrqXHyXM13AMCfygF07Syiz1AJoRi07hcvbn_37QqXBnmSAIELjV6VP47phic8vv_1nxMyd/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of course there was alchemy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gvohaoFnHaxrZPdEotgj4BOwAS91nG2I7Lo25CqK0amjIXvZzKj5XXH-tEshuSKpPb54qlbWDTbdEoieL2HFMyDhxCTIQzTedjY7IuslvHAUIPEgOlY72QKA4-FV-xe7CkKU_IkUxFTy/s1600/Slime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gvohaoFnHaxrZPdEotgj4BOwAS91nG2I7Lo25CqK0amjIXvZzKj5XXH-tEshuSKpPb54qlbWDTbdEoieL2HFMyDhxCTIQzTedjY7IuslvHAUIPEgOlY72QKA4-FV-xe7CkKU_IkUxFTy/s320/Slime.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The slime recipe was a big favorite with the kids!<br />
<br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixirS0ts2poMmkVjb_e5Y1LqPfFy_cTBjJbOJfhyphenhyphentIwBNtcDRLdaGwYcHmSsm-bNIGJBaF9Ej4T3aAEzHSaaiWTB9ISUTG1UtALlniD4rUADUBDkGc9E5i6iUmBs29-5anoQ_CBf7gsP8o/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixirS0ts2poMmkVjb_e5Y1LqPfFy_cTBjJbOJfhyphenhyphentIwBNtcDRLdaGwYcHmSsm-bNIGJBaF9Ej4T3aAEzHSaaiWTB9ISUTG1UtALlniD4rUADUBDkGc9E5i6iUmBs29-5anoQ_CBf7gsP8o/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A water balloon siege engine!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOLNFU3UFMV0bNUFaiYQPA3AYXCGIyIqDKxlupe11a1xCS1pORFRyaSN67Z_5HduIH97QL78-oN8TcgPLOy8PJlO3od2FBOe5KhDJaY9hScDeZuM-Jx5mXTnUF_Rtpwx-xRSRd2GNmjKp/s1600/Fire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOLNFU3UFMV0bNUFaiYQPA3AYXCGIyIqDKxlupe11a1xCS1pORFRyaSN67Z_5HduIH97QL78-oN8TcgPLOy8PJlO3od2FBOe5KhDJaY9hScDeZuM-Jx5mXTnUF_Rtpwx-xRSRd2GNmjKp/s320/Fire.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What monster to attack?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dgYwcESawoksoQzsLmK71-m7RbZHoGOjPn6hp2uwQwrWgL2nLGYTimXHgp3_-cA1RGhFK0CHH5Xkn8UWeLiEtSPh-Wi30bUKqPx-lOVDvm4b1_5LFb6BCs9Oevt0_awb4xWii4HpQDIp/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dgYwcESawoksoQzsLmK71-m7RbZHoGOjPn6hp2uwQwrWgL2nLGYTimXHgp3_-cA1RGhFK0CHH5Xkn8UWeLiEtSPh-Wi30bUKqPx-lOVDvm4b1_5LFb6BCs9Oevt0_awb4xWii4HpQDIp/s320/6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A goblin target!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxobUO8s9m0Yz_PufTfVrGibBJ_5w6xdhHpoTaOTiVAxjvgJwXSH_XTXvc3PqSd-ye44i5nOwWKafdLmf2kBBQygwTQap0AjLAsbVb5RPOfHrqtJoQMfHYoWe1tBFOOsPz1F8zl9Palo_/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxobUO8s9m0Yz_PufTfVrGibBJ_5w6xdhHpoTaOTiVAxjvgJwXSH_XTXvc3PqSd-ye44i5nOwWKafdLmf2kBBQygwTQap0AjLAsbVb5RPOfHrqtJoQMfHYoWe1tBFOOsPz1F8zl9Palo_/s320/7.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Gnoll target!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8-F-buyTaU_qEgCQqc1snHCePCErE1mHAgDXiVQfvBIrykckH2b58OwQJHjXoukZGaPLhuhSod299vnoZiRHcxrKlyOoOzXcw0aHOoTUhpvTfZY3VtCyp-R8A_KK95Oni4cvE5d39xGW/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8-F-buyTaU_qEgCQqc1snHCePCErE1mHAgDXiVQfvBIrykckH2b58OwQJHjXoukZGaPLhuhSod299vnoZiRHcxrKlyOoOzXcw0aHOoTUhpvTfZY3VtCyp-R8A_KK95Oni4cvE5d39xGW/s320/8.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An of course an Owlbear...I missed it every time!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxR4Mziz17DT9Rqwx5IFUkwQLG15AT9hAnwljsKIPg7IilaTiYFVz-eHDzRcfLPUqyACJc69sZd7r6gTk7Dm6CI-7nOCGuJ1jxBK5LqmKZ2GYMXU9vcfOpjqXI413ci3xYmMSoGI56sREu/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxR4Mziz17DT9Rqwx5IFUkwQLG15AT9hAnwljsKIPg7IilaTiYFVz-eHDzRcfLPUqyACJc69sZd7r6gTk7Dm6CI-7nOCGuJ1jxBK5LqmKZ2GYMXU9vcfOpjqXI413ci3xYmMSoGI56sREu/s320/9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This station had target dummies and shield making!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrkW4RqPc6STchQZvTZcs4CBgEkTvj6IHhVMW78TnWJz5nomjFYsvFkv1BVAzJNLRn-4Yk1xBACpbqPHbKYXPkDyPh2FW8YbZDmrPcaV9rxJoNYkzxnWPcrwZDDS5DZZfxD_0OUO0V98H/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrkW4RqPc6STchQZvTZcs4CBgEkTvj6IHhVMW78TnWJz5nomjFYsvFkv1BVAzJNLRn-4Yk1xBACpbqPHbKYXPkDyPh2FW8YbZDmrPcaV9rxJoNYkzxnWPcrwZDDS5DZZfxD_0OUO0V98H/s320/10.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade pillory for photo ops!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74A0yP3Nn_quzn5w70qOb_kFfNVd_uMAXWwNzxFOrr69Jyrdt1tCgGZAq9tq7WwYz1glzD4y2XKeFJ2CcvUytJxECA4T7zTZlEwZr0fKxOXEdXrwgzEEuFUvzm55lI6kZyngFOYJI59si/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74A0yP3Nn_quzn5w70qOb_kFfNVd_uMAXWwNzxFOrr69Jyrdt1tCgGZAq9tq7WwYz1glzD4y2XKeFJ2CcvUytJxECA4T7zTZlEwZr0fKxOXEdXrwgzEEuFUvzm55lI6kZyngFOYJI59si/s320/11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A home made BEHOLDER Pinata!!! This was amazing.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2bgXcAENivW2u4pgVr1Xf8dK5_CbnBxDsIPN6-dhXFa6e3K0ZY9kaLm654K1rfAMwBM3BlIduXFHar4XZUKf1o9BEh7Xcz2iede8yxWZ7kc5ncbppJFEtB0ZbClZxge7TDiLU5Lw-f1Vf/s1600/33708957_10160448311375397_4865718331665022976_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2bgXcAENivW2u4pgVr1Xf8dK5_CbnBxDsIPN6-dhXFa6e3K0ZY9kaLm654K1rfAMwBM3BlIduXFHar4XZUKf1o9BEh7Xcz2iede8yxWZ7kc5ncbppJFEtB0ZbClZxge7TDiLU5Lw-f1Vf/s320/33708957_10160448311375397_4865718331665022976_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The poor Beholder did not last many rounds against a dozen kids!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AQNpY1gtpuPR2mEU0jsWwf7J0LsHkweL6u0jy4Z1MW1z1Jfncz9d5KXVuvJFIjXEeWMH5mq2r7-tVMKOzdtZj103lQw-iIqdILO3NVwhE-ItQhfk6xe_lnyigDePZG7XrMnL9EczAjIi/s1600/Mimic+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AQNpY1gtpuPR2mEU0jsWwf7J0LsHkweL6u0jy4Z1MW1z1Jfncz9d5KXVuvJFIjXEeWMH5mq2r7-tVMKOzdtZj103lQw-iIqdILO3NVwhE-ItQhfk6xe_lnyigDePZG7XrMnL9EczAjIi/s320/Mimic+Cake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A home made MIMIC Birthday Cake!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5uMUM_I-Eh2QGtPsC2dMaIh8oBwFFQ0D5KF7ne_y5BKmLc2b_tJo3QqcB9Ps3rbA8opMQipo4OtD4DFvsxM7isSU8xrFB85NqhfiUsqLJTj8N0fSZlolq_gzmItLRwVbUo1QETQ7F731/s1600/Mimic+cake+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5uMUM_I-Eh2QGtPsC2dMaIh8oBwFFQ0D5KF7ne_y5BKmLc2b_tJo3QqcB9Ps3rbA8opMQipo4OtD4DFvsxM7isSU8xrFB85NqhfiUsqLJTj8N0fSZlolq_gzmItLRwVbUo1QETQ7F731/s320/Mimic+cake+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what it looks like after taking critical damage.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lock picking station for rogues in training.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahQt_wVVH-lEHDpdK88jqsPb055hdWlVL-1ZOgJWAJT6vMPNlkofVb7q7qSGpHX6jh8BetqKNzNGF6MI85dXETk0n9jwszeFcg8pV4smHUwPsQyA3leV69R3bL-Yigc9TwODRO1SEeU2H/s1600/Lock+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahQt_wVVH-lEHDpdK88jqsPb055hdWlVL-1ZOgJWAJT6vMPNlkofVb7q7qSGpHX6jh8BetqKNzNGF6MI85dXETk0n9jwszeFcg8pV4smHUwPsQyA3leV69R3bL-Yigc9TwODRO1SEeU2H/s320/Lock+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home made Kobold Kandy inside!</td></tr>
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My own son is 11-years old, and a new Dungeon Master. With about a dozen game sessions under his belt, he was quick to volunteer to DM for the party. Over the past few weeks, we worked on a 3-hour dungeon together. It was linear on purpose, after all this was a party and things needed to keep moving. The star of the show of course was the birthday boy, Brokk. The story being he was attempting to recover his lost family sword from the vile dragon Acidmaw!<br />
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The adventure featured many classic monsters such as a Water Weird, Gelatinous Cube and, Piercers. Many times during the adventure, some of the adults stepped in to quietly watch the adventure unfold. It was really cool experiencing the next generation playing a session together. All I could think was, wow...wish I had parents like us when I first learned about the game in <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/02/throwback-thursday-1983-nostalgia.html">1983</a>!<br />
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The players were given pre-made characters complete with custom paper miniatures. They also received a <i>Bag of Holding </i>which contained all sorts of accouterments such as pencils, paper, etc. <br />
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The kids had a blast and were thrilled to battle a dragon. Brokk's character found his magic sword, <i>Dragonslayer</i> and it launched to his hand. We ordered a cool foam sword and had it waiting for that very moment. My son handed it to him and the surprise was priceless! The group eventually slayed the evil dragon, with the birthday boy landing the final blow.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUoslCgRaRJlWqrGmMwbSQbft55jzrOfeW1VLxK5Wdj1unowpkZ5eox3BeZyAAtvDVjKa2DpJIV_cGj3VZWnxiHsSBOlt9ZytPTo837FowvHGa1TNDgjj-L0t5lZ-1Y1_JHIKST49AQR3/s1600/GT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUoslCgRaRJlWqrGmMwbSQbft55jzrOfeW1VLxK5Wdj1unowpkZ5eox3BeZyAAtvDVjKa2DpJIV_cGj3VZWnxiHsSBOlt9ZytPTo837FowvHGa1TNDgjj-L0t5lZ-1Y1_JHIKST49AQR3/s320/GT.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Game Tavern ready for the adventure.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdyKnyhJWZeFOAuT6B7VfvrF6fSxGfe5q4CXK9H0ExoHAik4Tb0xT_gT9fxymuKqmUXBGLGyhHiPc2ocMr8LXq1OYes-HoCMiC9L_rdoxNM3mx-pGQVoM6b2a_fk-ea9raI9IHpa_n6-pU/s1600/Adventure2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdyKnyhJWZeFOAuT6B7VfvrF6fSxGfe5q4CXK9H0ExoHAik4Tb0xT_gT9fxymuKqmUXBGLGyhHiPc2ocMr8LXq1OYes-HoCMiC9L_rdoxNM3mx-pGQVoM6b2a_fk-ea9raI9IHpa_n6-pU/s320/Adventure2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The game session. Faces blurred for privacy.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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If if you have any questions about some of crafted items in this post Tanya can be reached on <a href="https://twitter.com/tuneses">Twitter </a><a href="https://twitter.com/tuneses">@Tuneses</a>. Dungeons and Dragons is such a wonderful hobby. I'm really happy that our own children all love playing it. Keep gaming and remember you're never to old to be a kid at heart!Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-56042067754313649062018-05-15T12:57:00.004-04:002023-04-26T13:31:23.060-04:00Alternate Win Conditions in D&D<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5C2Z5BcuwXoI7EqBe9HmUKtzpkGws842PdACrS6wggtf2cdZos8L2OlIR0QiwOQtXI9z9mo5LLaOf9tYhCkUokze8GH9noanIi4bODREQwtbe5VVMwp_Pe1BAOtfzx5FdbATeg1tcrV6-/s1600/Chess.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5C2Z5BcuwXoI7EqBe9HmUKtzpkGws842PdACrS6wggtf2cdZos8L2OlIR0QiwOQtXI9z9mo5LLaOf9tYhCkUokze8GH9noanIi4bODREQwtbe5VVMwp_Pe1BAOtfzx5FdbATeg1tcrV6-/s320/Chess.jpg" width="320" /></a>After playing D&D for nearly four decades I have developed some habits as a Dungeon Master. One of them is using alternate win conditions for battles with boss level monsters and villains. Some while back I really became numb to the concept of hit points, especially in high level play. Far too often the battles felt like the players were just chopping down a tree...with a dull axe. Before going any further, I understand that style of play still appeals to some people. I’m not saying there's anything wrong with it. I just do not prefer it any longer.<br />
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I used the chess image to the right on purpose. There are countless possible games which eventually lead to a victory in chess. With that foundation in mind, let's explore how alternate win conditions can be used in D&D.<br />
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Hit points are not cinematic. Hit points are something the players can meta game as damage is dealt. Hit points are just a piece of the puzzle for me, not the whole thing. A well placed critical hit could potentially one shot an important story boss. The rest of the players are left with dice in hand, bummed how anti-climatic the battle was. Sure, sometimes as a DM you <u>NEED</u> to let that happen. Especially if everyone is cheering and excited at the result. After all, you’re the casino with endless resources to throw against the players. Those are game day calls and only you can decide what is best for your group and story.<br />
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So what are alternate win conditions? Well if you’ve ever played a video game you have seen them. They are best defined as a series of tasks which must be completed BEFORE you can defeat the boss. This defeat could be directly or indirectly, the latter being my favorite. I think the best way to show this is by example:<br />
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<b>Alternate Win Condition (Direct)</b><br />
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For this scenario I will detail what a boss fight typically looks like versus one updated with alternate win conditions.<br />
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<b>Final Room A:</b> When the PCs enter this chamber the <b>Goblin King</b> will be seated on his throne comprised of yellowed bone. To his left and right are two <b>Hobgoblin Guards</b>. He will yell out in the blackened tongue, “Destroy the interlopers!” Note: The Goblin King counts as a hobgoblin with maximum hit points. In addition, he has two attacks per round.<br />
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<b>Final Room B:</b> When the PCs enter this chamber the <b>Goblin King</b> will be seated on his throne comprised of yellowed bone. Upon seeing the PCs he will cackle evilly and vanish into wispy smoke. If the PCs advance on the throne they hear a series of clicks. Two pieces of rune covered obsidian rise from the floor on either side of the room. <br />
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These stones will summon <b>1d4+1 Goblin Skeletons</b> every round until disarmed (DC15 Sleight of Hand), disenchanted (DC15 Arcana), or destroyed (DC15 Athletics check). Any summoned goblin skeletons will defend the stones if necessary, using their <i>reaction</i> to impose disadvantage on a PC rolls.<br />
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In addition, the Goblin King is considered ethereal while the stones remain active. A DC15 Arcana check will reveal creatures that aren't on the Ethereal Plane can't interact with him, unless they have an ability or magic that allows this. That said, his awful cackle somehow reverberates throughout the chamber. Once the stones are deactivated the cowardly Goblin King will reappear, groveling for his life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aHOPxxB1aYKB4RhHHyVI01JO4Y1JpbyeIWh5G6RxM1a3gISgilJlo8B99asLviwYH6VJNNRM3RizFZZKI8N5zOroOY48mlae2fAO9d2NMY-ARjHzqlNZDVK4RclwaJjGY8xzx1fJcIqj/s1600/Goblin-King+Aradia+Miniatures.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="710" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aHOPxxB1aYKB4RhHHyVI01JO4Y1JpbyeIWh5G6RxM1a3gISgilJlo8B99asLviwYH6VJNNRM3RizFZZKI8N5zOroOY48mlae2fAO9d2NMY-ARjHzqlNZDVK4RclwaJjGY8xzx1fJcIqj/s320/Goblin-King+Aradia+Miniatures.png" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goblin King - Aradia Miniatures</td></tr>
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In the above example the players have to work more as a team to defeat this boss. The Goblin King is not just a bag of Hit Points. Since the stones work as monster generators, there is still a combat aspect to the encounter. This keeps the players who enjoy that style of play happy. Finally, the Goblin King could escape to menace the players another day if you so choose. Either way, the PCs have defeated him this time!<br />
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<b>Alternate Win Condition (Indirect)</b><br />
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This style of win condition works better in campaigns that are more story based. It’s usually a gradual thing as the PCs slowly chip away at the villain and foil plans. In one of my current campaigns the main villain doesn't even have stats written to a character sheet. He has carefully worked his machinations throughout the realm causing all sorts of chaos. NO, this villain is far too intelligent to risk direct confrontation! The players have been defeating his plans and lieutenants along the way. With each of their victories his power lessons and his plots and allies are exposed. That said, the constant threat of this villain hangs like a dark cloud over them. He strikes back whenever he can...but may be weakening. <br />
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I encourage you to find ways to incorporate alternate win conditions into your sessions when dealing with boss level encounters. Even though D&D finds its foundation in war games not every battle needs to be decided with hit points. I think by mixing it up once in a while you will keep the sessions fresh for your players and have them thinking of new ways to use their character abilities. Even better, occasionally a player will dream up an alternate win condition on the spot. This is the stuff of legends! Embrace it and create a story your group will talk about for years to come. <br />
<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-67167229795038302212018-05-04T14:54:00.000-04:002018-05-04T15:05:41.021-04:00Adventuring Gear: The CrowbarThe Crowbar. It’s perfect for prying open doors, removing nails, smashing glass, using the sharpened end as a chisel, or even an improvised weapon. Is there one in your adventuring pack? If not, there should be.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUHKv3Ntwu9JYCrfgdBYLnU3T-emO_TSNLtL1p12Kc1dmt2gqwkChfPKxYF6VDwG0sZ5x_GNoGGKZrW2KNbRl3NdfhiNgFDIlhW8icgHZ2wXuiDQaugz4iLufgfWM-waVaMNo11YmgVbp/s1600/Crowbar2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="900" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUHKv3Ntwu9JYCrfgdBYLnU3T-emO_TSNLtL1p12Kc1dmt2gqwkChfPKxYF6VDwG0sZ5x_GNoGGKZrW2KNbRl3NdfhiNgFDIlhW8icgHZ2wXuiDQaugz4iLufgfWM-waVaMNo11YmgVbp/s320/Crowbar2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>According to the etymology dictionary, it was once simply known as <i>crow</i>; so called from its "beak" or from resemblance to a crow's foot; or possibly it is from <i>crows</i>, from Old French <i>cros</i>, plural of <i>croc</i> "hook."<br />
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To get started let’s look at the Crowbar as presented in the current 5E rules:<br />
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<i>Using a crowbar grants <b>advantage</b> to Strength Checks where the crowbar's leverage can be applied.</i><br />
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Obviously the use of one in some circumstances requires DM adjudication, but a crowbar is super useful. Advantage to ANY roll is kind of a big deal. Someone in your party should have one of these. <br />
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So how can we home-brew the crowbar a tad? Well for one I would house rule they do the same damage as a club, and are not really an improvised weapon. Just ask <a href="http://half-life.wikia.com/wiki/Crowbar">Gordon Freeman</a> in Half-life. It seems like something most dwarves would be familiar with, especially if they come from a line of miners. A well constructed crowbar would be useful in prying apart seams or just to break rock.<br />
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I would imagine the most coveted would be an adamantine crowbar. Which is interesting since the fabled metal was recently featured in <b>Xanathar’s Guide To Everything</b>:<br />
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</i> <i>Adamantine is an ultrahard metal found in meteorites and extraordinary mineral veins. In addition to being used to craft adamantine armor, the metal is also used for weapons. Melee weapons and ammunition made of or coated with adamantine are unusually effective when used to break objects. <b>Whenever an adamantine weapon or piece of ammunition hits an object, the hit is a critical hit. </b>The adamantine version of a melee weapon or of ten pieces of ammunition costs 500 gp more than the normal version, whether the weapon or ammunition is made of the metal or coated with it.</i><br />
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An automatic critical hit against objects? Sign me up! What if the dwarves took it a step further and crafted a Spearbar? All the benefits of being a lever, chisel and a nasty piercing weapon. This would be a tool/treasure worth coveting for any dungeoneer!<br />
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Below Youtuber Chasen Tom did just that minus the adamantine...I think!<br />
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I’m a big fan of mundane equipment as it harkens back to old school D&D. Descriptive play was the thing. We made good use of every tool at our disposal as we explored the dungeon. This was more then just consulting skills and rolling dice. Rather an invitation to be a better player, a better DM and ultimately a more imaginative gamer. I invite you to read over the adventuring gear section of the <i>Player’s Handbook</i>, you may be surprised at what you find!<br />
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</div>Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-29694549304324678642018-04-12T14:19:00.005-04:002018-04-12T14:24:32.049-04:00Magic Item: Mind Steel CoifThis very rare chain coif is created by the Githyanki* in the Astral Plane. Legend holds that over the epochs they found ways to avoid the terrible mind attacks of those whom enslaved them. The coifs are crafted from Mind Steel. This priceless ore is said to be the crystallized blood of a dead celestial being. How the Githyanki are able to work it into wearable armor is the subject of debate among the arcane.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEV2dSDYdndh3ICCaRlPxdq5edLSF9F7kogxWHqic5Ay9r8OG77pWnBjeFWXp6wDn_vb1aBxJoWZ8J60WMvJr2s6lEuJdEBPGAzIZLqmMkGuQDlJ0jNanahaTndMcq5argH7Ih54aEeHA/s1600/Mind+Steel+Coif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="896" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEV2dSDYdndh3ICCaRlPxdq5edLSF9F7kogxWHqic5Ay9r8OG77pWnBjeFWXp6wDn_vb1aBxJoWZ8J60WMvJr2s6lEuJdEBPGAzIZLqmMkGuQDlJ0jNanahaTndMcq5argH7Ih54aEeHA/s320/Mind+Steel+Coif.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Designed by Vanessa Walilko, @KaliButterfly </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Mind Steel Coif</b><br />
<br />
<i>Requires Attunement</i><br />
<br />
You gain the following benefits while wearing it:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Resistance to Psychic damage.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A Mind Flayer must spend one round removing the Mind Steel Coif before using its <i>Extract Brain</i> ability.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The coif also protects the wearer from the dark whispers of things unimaginable. Once per long rest you may gain <i>advantage</i> on a Wisdom Saving throw against an effect caused by an aberration.</li>
</ul>
<br />
You gain the following hindrances while wearing it:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The coif does resemble an alien Mind Flayer or a metal octopus from the briny depths. The wearer is viewed with unusual suspicion, which causes <i>disadvantage</i> on all Charisma based checks.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Finally, Aberrations will take special interest in destroying a Mind Steel Coif. Their servants may actively try to steal it, or worse be sent to dispatch the wearer. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfxptv0KCMsBo-c-dcXnOGgwZrBk5sMbKk95E0CcWTVQ86MkCGlNzmcG6LlvT1S61S05Mjj6UqIKumSuid7C6_adzc8rQUT-4c0dC0KFOrXVjanFahzhmcXNaQqXT2GG7kgl4KH5Dp7aB/s1600/FF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1183" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfxptv0KCMsBo-c-dcXnOGgwZrBk5sMbKk95E0CcWTVQ86MkCGlNzmcG6LlvT1S61S05Mjj6UqIKumSuid7C6_adzc8rQUT-4c0dC0KFOrXVjanFahzhmcXNaQqXT2GG7kgl4KH5Dp7aB/s200/FF.jpg" width="147" /></a><br />
*For the uninitiated the Githyanki are astral sea dwellers who were once enslaved by a malevolent and cthulhu-esque race known as the Illithid or Mind Flayers. The Githyanki first appeared in the 1979 issue #12 of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Dwarf_%28magazine%29">White Dwarf</a>, in the "Fiend Factory" column. However, they are most famous for being depicted on the cover of the 1981 AD&D book, Fiend Folio. Interestingly, the name Githyanki was first coined by George R. R. Martin in his 1977 sci-fi novel <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dying-Light-George-R-R-Martin/dp/0553383086">Dying of the Light</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-26385067845820743592018-01-23T16:12:00.000-05:002018-01-24T12:57:13.511-05:00The Estoc<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKn2VFmjC52-dSLlsIDBj8EqWhfuipFs4udLJFMFlUkoORTe61i4ig5yScHYaeK-97zVLK24lJO1VjoubSzrAVPakVPDswbe3Goe9RGEhpticu-bjHfrUwTZuaRbMHb28hXIhf9VbykdH/s1600/Estoc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKn2VFmjC52-dSLlsIDBj8EqWhfuipFs4udLJFMFlUkoORTe61i4ig5yScHYaeK-97zVLK24lJO1VjoubSzrAVPakVPDswbe3Goe9RGEhpticu-bjHfrUwTZuaRbMHb28hXIhf9VbykdH/s320/Estoc1.jpg" width="320" /></a>The <i>Estoc</i>, also dubbed the <i>Tuck</i> or <i>Panzerstecher</i>, is a two-handed thrusting sword, from the 14th-17th centuries. To this day the Estoc is often mistaken for a long sword or rapier. This was a weapon made to defeat opponents wearing heavy armor. The blade normally had no edge and was designed to deliver terrible stabbing wounds. The rigidity and durability of its triangular point pierced mail after finding entry through seams or joints.<br />
<br />
As a sidearm that specialized in defeating armor-clad opponents, it was not terribly common. Although it was a weapon of war, the Estoc was occasionally used in some tournaments. The combatants sparred with the dull blade without fear of seriously injuring each other. This approach translated to the battlefield as a makeshift club to beat on an opponent in a real confrontation.<br />
<br />
The Estoc also found use by some cavalry as a light lance. That said, it was not a replacement for a slashing sword or similar weapon. Instead they were a complement to a warrior’s tool belt of arms and equipment.<br />
<br />
I decided to make a 5E D&D version to add to my campaign world. After all, adventurers encounter heavily armored opponents! After a few variations I believe it's unique enough to deserve a spot on the weapons chart: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5zce5Spz993Zy4sIHrxech73Zlng5dhdmA-SfR-QI70VeTi0gdA1fBP17eeuB9_j2exUAadJ4xz8umBgGsy63yxUcOW5rodWJuRZKySd2w1JZHqIXGEG2wKCqs_i_J8Ln35kKBthAqiI/s1600/Estoc3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="492" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5zce5Spz993Zy4sIHrxech73Zlng5dhdmA-SfR-QI70VeTi0gdA1fBP17eeuB9_j2exUAadJ4xz8umBgGsy63yxUcOW5rodWJuRZKySd2w1JZHqIXGEG2wKCqs_i_J8Ln35kKBthAqiI/s400/Estoc3.jpg" width="158" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estoc & Rapier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Estoc</b></span><br />
<br />
<b>Damage:</b> 1d8<br />
<br />
<b>Damage Type: </b>Piercing*<br />
<br />
<b>Item Type:</b> Martial Melee<br />
<br />
<b>Properties:</b> Armor Piercing (Advantage against opponents using Heavy Armor). <br />
<br />
<b>*Special:</b> The Estoc can be used as a club for 1d6 bludgeoning damage. It does not benefit from its <i>Armor Piercing</i> property when doing so.<br />
<br />
<b>Cost:</b> 200 GP (They are hard to find).<br />
<br />
<b>Weight:</b> 4<br />
<br />
<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-50731425767727755412018-01-17T15:38:00.000-05:002018-01-17T15:39:05.388-05:00Diary of a Lich<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnSubAgRQgw5UMOQnK0ROFPvo20Asw5zZzwz2F9LmYl0Zr4r8M1Pso3TrPfG133RqmbDnzYTTD852yEPd-b2v2bRGCjH_mS1OE4JjG5pmiKa8SQ-eZ5IritgDx5Zj9BIH-sFFrw2tQuTq/s1600/Diary1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1024" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnSubAgRQgw5UMOQnK0ROFPvo20Asw5zZzwz2F9LmYl0Zr4r8M1Pso3TrPfG133RqmbDnzYTTD852yEPd-b2v2bRGCjH_mS1OE4JjG5pmiKa8SQ-eZ5IritgDx5Zj9BIH-sFFrw2tQuTq/s320/Diary1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Vita non est vivere sed valere vita est - <br />
<i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life is more than just being alive</i></div>
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One of the things I have pondered over the years is what intelligent undead do with all their spare time. Especially powerful wizards such as a lich. Sure, they continue researching magic, or devise traps to protect their possessions. The latter would be especially true when dealing with their phylactery. What if the lich out of sheer boredom began penning a diary or journal?<br />
<br />
This could be something interesting for the PCs to find. The book could be loaded with all sorts of adventure hooks and campaign information. Next to its phylactery, it may be the single most important personal possession of the lich. Surely the PCs would make a life long enemy by taking it or happening upon it.<br />
<br />
This could also make for a wonderful table prop by using a real book and hand writing the entries. It may be a tad laborious on the Dungeon Master’s part, but the players will love it. I was just looking at several leather-bound journals at <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/home-gifts/journals/leather-journals/_/N-8qgZ1hgc">Barnes & Noble</a> and they would be perfect. The pages could easily be aged with some instant coffee staining. Moreover, if you make a mistake while writing just tear out a page. It may look even more authentic and raise all sorts of questions for the PCs.<br />
<br />
Below I have created some sample entries to get you started: <br />
<br />
<b>-Campaign date-</b> <i>It has been months since I could articulate my fingers to write. Therefore, I’m using the Mage Hand incantation to pen this entry. Undeath is a curious thing indeed. I feel numb most days. Then I have brief episodes of feeling. Or perhaps it’s just deep memories. My research will continue.</i><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DglbDUkP0Xa937h0IkwJEzEJZB7q6AucAaIQCPw-3aUNZO1i899711UJI-NtlA6EIh7bOyAvJ2-Ga-reCM_TbK6bSs1lj3SA-8lxrZSoxMn2JodcejFKNFgL8UGnstzhluof0J7wt7ba/s1600/William+Owsley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DglbDUkP0Xa937h0IkwJEzEJZB7q6AucAaIQCPw-3aUNZO1i899711UJI-NtlA6EIh7bOyAvJ2-Ga-reCM_TbK6bSs1lj3SA-8lxrZSoxMn2JodcejFKNFgL8UGnstzhluof0J7wt7ba/s320/William+Owsley.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demilich by William Owsley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>-Campaign date-</b> <i>I think years have passed. Time has no meaning to me now. My last entry is curious. Did I really think I was feeling anything? Now I know better. Life makes me angry now. I want to snuff it out like a candle flame. Life is short and wasteful. I accomplished little then. My peers made sure to remind me of that. </i><br />
<br />
<b>-Campaign date-</b> <i>Most of them are gone now. Their end will never be solved. I wanted to experience pleasure. Their deaths bring me none. But my mind still understands revenge. Their spell books have been buried away. Their families will never find them. Only four Shadow Oaks exist in the forests of the world.</i><br />
<br />
<b>-Campaign date-</b> <i>Oh my, that last entry must have been one hundred years ago. Today a company of thieves entered my abode. They begged for their lives, proclaiming to just be adventurers. The elven woman was a talented wizard. I commended her on dispelling one of my enchantments. To bad I had to disintegrate her. I would have enjoyed discussing arcane treatises. They did leave me all these lovely magic items. I will place them in the invisible chest – making a note in case I forget.</i><br />
<i> </i><b> </b><br />
<b>-Campaign date-</b> <i>I have been experimenting with using a grain of sand as a potential phylactery. In fact, I’ve become quite obsessed with this idea. My last several attempts were unsuccessful. I need to find sand that originates from inside an elemental volcano. I will send servants claim such a place.</i><br />
<br />
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<b>-Campaign date-<i> </i></b><i>I just found this old tome in my library. I wonder who authored all this nonsense? Is this a trick? Why is everyone always trying to trick me? I will find whoever the interloper is!<br />
</i><br />
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<i><br />
</i>Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-74505986867959127752017-10-23T11:30:00.000-04:002017-10-23T16:45:36.255-04:00Twenty Questions with Rose Estes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In 1983 I was given a few <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endless_Quest">Endless Quest</a> books for my birthday. Already voraciously consuming anything Dungeons & Dragons related I could find, these were a great gift. The idea of a book where you could make story choices and change the outcome was a great concept. After all this was the very spirit of the game, where the players are crafting the story at the table together.<br />
<br />
For me the Endless Quest books were just another reason to love D&D in the 1980s. I poured over each of them dozens of times, trying every possible outcome. My young imagination was on fire and these little books were fueling it. Now so many years later I have passed the books onto my own children, who similarly have enjoyed them.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6914.Rose_Estes">Rose Estes</a> was the creator of the Endless Quest series, and a name that will always be dear to me. I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Rose recently, and would like to share it below.<br />
<br />
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<b>Twenty Questions with Rose Estes</b></div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdl8d8lF85EwLDY9jTQ_lY__1aA0BdJPAYEuI6BHxk_D9XTuXi7lmAHstYkuItm0EOxRrZtFMoqu6fKBJoUFcev1sBN5HZHGhLz-KO4nW5CaOLD_GJB_Opzr1ebdQE3BJyoDo44LRVjBX/s1600/rose-estesjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="512" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdl8d8lF85EwLDY9jTQ_lY__1aA0BdJPAYEuI6BHxk_D9XTuXi7lmAHstYkuItm0EOxRrZtFMoqu6fKBJoUFcev1sBN5HZHGhLz-KO4nW5CaOLD_GJB_Opzr1ebdQE3BJyoDo44LRVjBX/s320/rose-estesjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> What was it like working at TSR Hobbies in the 1980s?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> Working for TSR in the early 1980's was very, very exciting. You knew that you were part of something important and that it was headed nowhere but UP! You never knew what was going to happen from one day to the next, but it was only going to be good in the long (and definitely in the short) run. You had the sense of being on a fast-moving train and all that you could do was hold on tight. It was exhilarating and every morning one wondered and looked forward to: <i>"what will happen today?!"</i><br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> Did you ever have a chance to interface with Gary Gygax? <br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>In the early 80's Gary's office was only a few doors down the hall and everyone interacted. Gary was obviously leader of the pack, but he was available to all.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> I read my first Endless Quest book in 1983. As a young Dungeons & Dragons player, those stories really resonated with me. Could you tell us how the Endless Quest books came about?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> Well, in 1982 I took a leave of absence to travel with friends who were part of a tent circus, I figured that it would make for interesting newspaper articles. I had been with them for only a few weeks when we set up in Decorah, Iowa and went to town to do some laundry. There was a bookcase and books that one could borrow or buy and I picked up one of R.A. Montgomery's Choose <i>Your Own Adventure</i> books. I realized instantly that the books would be the perfect method of explaining D&D to both adults and kids. It had been my job to try to explain the game to adults, most of whom disapproved of the game without understanding it. So, I cut short my trip and called a friend to come and get me.<br />
<br />
When I returned I tried my best to convince the powers that be that TSR should do a Choose Your Own Adventure type of book. But the idea met with little interest despite my many attempts to convince them otherwise. Finally, annoyed that I kept on about the idea I was told that if I thought it was a good idea, I should write it myself.<br />
<br />
The thought had never occurred to me. I had worked as a journalist, but had never written or even envisioned writing fiction. But I was so aggravated that I did just that, I went home and wrote the first of what would become the Endless Quest series, "Return to Brookmere." I wrote it longhand on legal pads.<br />
<br />
Eventually, the project was introduced at a Random House TSR sales meeting in Puerto Rico in January of 1982. The upshot was that Random House was very familiar with Montgomery's series and agreed that it was a perfect vehicle for introducing D&D to a wider audience. I was tasked with writing three more books in the next three months which I did, all in long hand on legal pads.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> Return to Brookmere is a personal favorite of mine. So much that I have often included the “Ruins of Brookmere” in my own D&D campaigns. I was curious what your inspiration for that story may have been?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>"Return to Brookmere" was actually the first book, not "Dungeon of Dread." I had lived in the tiny town (pop. 16) of Brookmere high in the mountains of British Columbia, 400 miles north of Vancouver, B.C. for two years in the late 60's and had always hoped to return. But I never did. So, I suppose subconsciously, it was my way of paying homage to a brief, idyllic time in my life.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Larry Elmore cover for<i> Return to Brookmere</i> </td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> Of all the Endless Quest books you authored, which one are you most proud of?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> Oddly, I have no particular favorite in the series. You have to understand, I had no background in writing, not in journalism or in fiction. I never had any writing classes of any sort and what I wrote came out of my own head, I can't blame anyone else for it. So, being thrust into fiction with no time to think, plan or even worry about it, I just wrote the books as quickly as I could to keep up with the demanding publication schedule. Each of them, I would later realize, was a learning experience and I did my best to adapt to the needs of the stories.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, set up as they were, call and response, so to speak, the story-line and choices dictated what needed to be written, as good as an outline or a blueprint and drove the story from beginning to end. I could not have intentionally created a better teaching tool. I learned from each and every book and so, gradually, my skills improved. I had no time to be fearful or to wonder what the heck I thought I was doing pretending to be an author and writing books! Some years I wrote as many as five books, it was a hectic pace and obviously, it changed my life.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>I’ve heard that you were not a D&D player and it surprised me. It certainly did not seem to affect your ability to create very thematic stories. What was your secret?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> I think this is the most important question you've asked. No, I never played the game. I was drawn by the stories but had little to absolutely no interest in all of the dice rolling which seemed tedious and worse, interrupted the flow of the narrative. I realize this is heresy, but so be it. <br />
<br />
Few things in my life have had as major an influence on my life and creating the person I am than reading, so, despite my lack of formal training, I am first and foremost, a storyteller and that was always the impetus behind the books. Obviously, the game created the framework and provided both the background and the characters/creatures/action and the E.Q.'s could not have existed without D&D. So, if there's a secret, that's it.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> Over the years, there has been some controversy over the Greyhawk: Endless Quest books. I know they were published after Gary’s departure from TSR. Fans complain they were not true to the source material. Could you share with us some background and your thoughts on that?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>I'm not surprised that there has been controversy over the Greyhawks and if I could go back in time, I would apologize to Gary and his fans for what I did to his much loved world of Greyhawk. Writing E.Q.'s was far, far different that writing a serious novel. I had myself, left TSR and was dealing with the financial vagaries that are the due of a writer. When I was offered the Greyhawk series, I was not in a position financially to say no, but unfortunately, I didn't have the skills to do them justice. <br />
<br />
The first two Greyhawks that I wrote embarrass me to this day. Frankly, they were awful. And yet, they are the real launching pad for the writer I've become. I cut my teeth on them and left them much the worse for being gnawed upon. I apologize wholeheartedly to anyone I disappointed. But, I think that by the time I got to books 6, 7 and 8, they and I had much improved. Unfortunately, most people had stopped reading them.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b> I know you stopped writing for a period of ten years because of a terrible motor vehicle accident. Have you recovered from your injuries?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>It's very strange the way life works. Yes, the accident was a game changer. I sustained a closed head injury that killed the part of the brain that retrieves vocabulary. Isn't that ironically bizarre? But, because I had a large vocabulary pre-accident, it might have seemed that nothing was wrong, I could still carry on an intelligent conversation, but it completely altered the way that I thought. <br />
<br />
Before the accident I used to have to beg friends like Jim Ward for plots. Post-accident, my head overflowed with plots, ideas of all sorts gushing forth 24/7 and the problem became how to manage and live with my chaotic brain and all that it spewed out. Early days it all but overwhelmed me.<br />
<br />
I MUST mention that I might not have survived as a writer had it not been for my longtime partner Tom Wham who helped me write and finish books that were in the works and during this period of time, and Bill Fawcett who gave me work and all but supported me at times. I owe them both a huge debt of gratitude. Over the intervening years, my brain and I have reached somewhat of a truce. It grudgingly allows itself to be caged when I have to concentrate on life and in turn, I allow it to run rampant after I'm done working. It's a strange existence being both jailer and prisoner contained in the same body.<br />
<br />
So yes, with caveats, I have recovered. I began writing again in 2004 and wrote three books of nonfiction on the evolution and development of various dog breeds. Writing nonfiction is easier than writing fiction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UIb9mcfMDfjvjxnn_UhEfyjqV2mnvaKdiKObfI2aDeuiJFY8Fuv7FbiETH9CDgz0bo8PjTpBKPijoE4rxTxitQzJW_sVzBDcsB6hkRsmGe9NqekPLDSKghGd_YTYKLgHc65N2r4yXh8g/s1600/endless-quest-1982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="653" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UIb9mcfMDfjvjxnn_UhEfyjqV2mnvaKdiKObfI2aDeuiJFY8Fuv7FbiETH9CDgz0bo8PjTpBKPijoE4rxTxitQzJW_sVzBDcsB6hkRsmGe9NqekPLDSKghGd_YTYKLgHc65N2r4yXh8g/s400/endless-quest-1982.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1982 Endless Quest Ad</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>Dungeons and Dragons is now enjoying what many consider to be, mainstream popularity. Obviously social media and shows such as Game of Thrones have brought in new fans. Will we see any more writing projects from you that are fantasy related?<br />
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<b>Rose Estes:</b> Several years ago, I was contacted by Ryan Schifferin (through Facebook!) who offered me the opportunity to write a story using characters of his creation. It was great fun and I gained a lot of confidence in doing so. Then, this year, I wrote a story for an anthology called <i>Sisterhood of the Blade</i> for Jonathan Thompson and Ed Greenwood, who were kind to invite me to be a part of their project.<br />
<br />
I have not contacted any of the main stream publishers whom I wrote for, nor do I have an agent, so I am just feeling my way forward. I'm currently writing a digital E.Q. type book for Randy Price's company 2 Kings. <br />
<br />
I do have several plots that are swimming around and demanding loudly that they be written, but I am having trouble constraining them to short formats like E.Q.'s, they all aspire to be novels. Not sure what will happen there.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>The Endless Quest books were translated into 28 languages and have sold over 16 million copies. That is really a stunning accomplishment. If you could tell your younger writing self-anything, what would it be, and why?<br />
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<b>Rose Estes: </b>Advice to my younger self.....I wish I could have told myself to relax and enjoy the moment more than being so focused on plans for the future. But I probably wouldn't have listened.<br />
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<b>Grand DM:</b> At the end of <i>Inside the Actor’s Studio</i>, James Lipton has a list of interview questions. He always credits them to French novelist Marcel Proust (1871–1922). I would like to ask you those questions.<br />
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<b>Rose Estes:</b> Sounds good. <br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> What is your favorite word?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b> I've always been fascinated by the fact that in the Chinese language, disaster and opportunity are the same word. Since my life has often been defined by both, I'd have to say that is my favorite word.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> What is your least favorite word?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> I have several words that are my least favorites, all equally disliked: Li Berry (instead of library, and I admit to disliking people who can't be bothered to say it correctly. SMIRK (frequently over-used and used incorrectly). Amazing! Awesome! It would me everything to me! All are totally overused words and phrases and have become all but meaningless.<br />
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<b>Grand DM:</b> What turns you on creatively, spiritually, or emotionally?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>Creative turn ons: Beauty. New thoughts, generally gained from television or books that explode in my brain and consume me. Emotionally: music and interaction with animals. Spiritually, music, watching the ocean which is at my doorstep and the night sky.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>What turns you off?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b> Being told that I can't do something. Intentional meanness of spirit.<br />
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<b>Grand DM: </b>What is your favorite curse word?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b> I rarely curse, I'd rather find words that mean what I think.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>What sound or noise do you love?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> Music, a cat's purr.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM: </b>What sound or noise do you hate?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> The sounds of politics for personal gain, greed, destruction of all that is good that so many have strived for, cruelty, ignorance, racial division. <br />
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<b>Grand DM:</b> What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes:</b> When my late husband Gary Hauser, was diagnosed with cancer in 2006, I took over running his gallery, thinking it would only be until he recovered and returned. Unfortunately, that never happened. As I'd never even thought of having such a business, I was at a loss. His advice was for me to follow my passions. Which I did with his full support. It has enabled me to explore and collect some of the most interesting objects from around the world, which seem to delight and resonate with large numbers of interesting people. The objects and the people allow me, at this late date in my life, to vicariously travel the world. The sculpting of animals is simply a private passion.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> What profession would you not like to do?<br />
<br />
<b>Rose Estes: </b>I would hate and be incapable of working with anything mathematical, analytical or rigidly formatted.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand DM:</b> If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?<br />
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<b>Rose Estes: </b>“Well done, you made a difference in children's/animal's lives." Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-33635767765851944512017-09-27T16:51:00.001-04:002017-09-27T20:04:26.361-04:00Tomb of Annihilation: Mundane Dangers of Chult<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjO9afCa6NtyaomBHH6YAfy_ZFmq5YwI0J1YZj96gakHTdKGOtBdgsBHLO4V3A6iPyBhy9LMFyMRCg4eh_B8mvcBmcaW_cv0oGlNXSuedkAjEM0DK3Ixuv9Rc7mV4JbaHf1fRvmbKof5s/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1400" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjO9afCa6NtyaomBHH6YAfy_ZFmq5YwI0J1YZj96gakHTdKGOtBdgsBHLO4V3A6iPyBhy9LMFyMRCg4eh_B8mvcBmcaW_cv0oGlNXSuedkAjEM0DK3Ixuv9Rc7mV4JbaHf1fRvmbKof5s/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
With the release of <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/tomb-annihilation">Tomb of Annihilation</a>, I wanted to expand some on the dangers within a jungle setting. So I decided to base a few adventuring challenges off real life. While fantastical flora and fauna is expected in a game such as Dungeons & Dragons, sometimes the mundane is just as deadly. Below I have listed some things that could happen to player characters as they explore the wilds of Chult. As a Dungeon Master, these occurrences will help you bring the environment even more to life.<br />
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<u><b>Biting Midge Swarm</b></u><br />
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Although their average life span is only a few days, biting midges are not to be ignored. They are most active around dawn and dusk, and congregate in vertical columns, or swarms. They are commonly mistaken for mosquitoes by the unwary traveler. Female midges voraciously bite because they require blood to help form their eggs. The swarms are attracted to both humanoids and animals because of carbon dioxide generated by their breath. They are also very in tune with the smell of natural body odor and sweat when hunting for blood.<br />
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For this iteration, the swarm is considered a <i>hazard</i>. A living creature encountering a Biting Midge Swarm must make a DC12 Constitution saving throw or become <i>Prone</i> for one minute. This saving throw may be attempted again at the end of their next turn. For every round a creature is within the biting swarm, there is a 15% chance they contract a disease. Roll 1d4 on the following table to determine the disease:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtuxTaoxOxJHiPEcIDKST9ftkppS3FEzUBdVdCwoATsC_itKAeVU_KiZv_raPDNoaFAgwA-KcgwF9XSKJVGOHvCZLITAc_GEo1hysmkYQw0EKi4R8RkowaWU3ZTXR-GLikjaBJ6molLqL/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="890" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtuxTaoxOxJHiPEcIDKST9ftkppS3FEzUBdVdCwoATsC_itKAeVU_KiZv_raPDNoaFAgwA-KcgwF9XSKJVGOHvCZLITAc_GEo1hysmkYQw0EKi4R8RkowaWU3ZTXR-GLikjaBJ6molLqL/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>1.</b> <b> Shivering Sickness </b>(Page 40, ToA)<br />
<b>2. </b> <b> Sight Rot </b>(Page 257, DMG)<br />
<b>3. </b> <b>Cackle Fever</b> (Page 257, DMG)<br />
<b>4. </b> <b>Sewer Plague</b> (Page 257, DMG)<br />
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<b>What preventative measures may be taken?</b><br />
<br />
Aside from using magic, such as a <i>Gust of Wind</i> spell, the following are some mundane tips:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Insect Repellent </b>(Page 32, ToA). Caveat: This will not keep the whole swarm away, but reduce <i>Prone</i> time by half on a failed save.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Face Net.</b> Advantage on Saving Throw against becoming <i>Prone</i>. Disadvantage on <i>Perception</i> checks.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Citrus or Smoke.</b> Good for camps to keep swarms away, but may draw the attention of other things!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Yeast in the blood.</b> This may just be a local myth, but some suggest midge hate the flavor. But hey, another reason to enjoy dwarven ale! </li>
</ul>
<br />
<u><b>Infections</b></u><br />
<br />
Listed below are two types of common infection within the jungle. In fact, they are so common that a party resource such as <i>Lesser Restoration </i>may be drained quite often.<br />
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<b>Fungal (jungle) Rot: </b>This occurs when the character’s feet are exposed to constant moisture and humid conditions. Each day a DC12 Constitution saving throw is required, to avoid bacteria infecting saturated feet. On a failed save, raised ulcers or carbuncles form in one day, causing terrible pain. Characters at this stage gain one level of <i>Exhaustion</i>. Within 1d4 days the feet will swell and gangrene will set in causing another level of <i>Exhaustion</i>. If this is not treated within a reasonable time (DM’s prerogative) with healing magic, amputation will be required. For this reason, it’s common to see foot amputees in Port Nyanzaru, most of which are foreigners.<br />
<br />
<b>What preventative measures may be taken?</b><br />
<br />
Dry your feet. This can be done manually, or even with a <i>Prestidigitation</i> cantrip. Characters who do this daily gain advantage on saving throws against fungal rot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lpcih6wZIKHHZmmEcH2IijAlVKqfKE5RFXnXEfLbXXeXkSsKG26HH5kYOnEK_yc1nGHmJhPJZULVfBZOWTB591vzoZKSjV2opuFVAM0vtpuTW9Hk8IZjBzeSKOb2DHJcNjQyjTKHdfA1/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1250" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lpcih6wZIKHHZmmEcH2IijAlVKqfKE5RFXnXEfLbXXeXkSsKG26HH5kYOnEK_yc1nGHmJhPJZULVfBZOWTB591vzoZKSjV2opuFVAM0vtpuTW9Hk8IZjBzeSKOb2DHJcNjQyjTKHdfA1/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Nyanzaru’s Revenge:</b> This condition comes with a fever, nausea, vomiting, cramps, and the abrupt onset of diarrhea. They won’t be laughing long after their characters are infected with it. With dehydration a constant threat (Page 38, ToA), characters in Chult are drinking all the time. Any ground or river water which is consumed without first being boiled is considered contaminated. In addition, the unsanitary handling of food can also cause this condition.<br />
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Any time a character consumes water or foodstuffs which is potentially contaminated, they must succeed on a DC15 Constitution saving throw. On a failure they have Nyanzaru’s Revenge, and gain a level of <i>Exhaustion</i>. The condition will then last 1d4 days, with subsequent saving throws allowed. For each new failure, gain another level of <i>Exhaustion</i>.<br />
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<b>What preventative measures may be taken?</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Avoid food and water from shady street vendors in Port Nyanzaru or neighboring villages. </li>
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<li>Be certain any drinks were created with boiled water.</li>
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<li>Be very, very nice to the Dungeon Master.</li>
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-47546539183326805582017-09-14T11:50:00.002-04:002017-09-14T11:53:26.064-04:00Three DM Lifehacks You Should ConsiderAfter sitting behind the DM screen for many years you learn a few things. As a Dungeon Master, I’m always on the lookout for cheap, but effective ways to improve the tabletop experience. Listed below are three DM Lifehacks I think will benefit you, but obviously every group is different. If you have any hacks of your own please feel free to share them in the comments section.<br />
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<b>Clothespin</b><br />
Since the early 1980s I have seen countless attempts at initiative trackers. I personally have used everything from a dry erase board, legal pad, 3x5cards, and even designated a player to do it. There have even been apps developed for it and recent crowd funding projects. But nothing has done a better job than the simple old clothespin. You can buy them in bulk from the dollar store and then all you need is a few sharpies. They can be clipped right to your DM screen and are in plain few of everyone in the room. If you don’t use a DM screen they can be attached to just about anything else on the table. I have seen people use everything from a metal paper towel stand, to a upside down box lid. So, you also want to speed up combat? Think about clothespins for visible initiative tracking.<br />
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<b>Pizza Box Stand</b><br />
They come with your pizza order to keep the cheese and topping from sticking to the box. Showing elevation from flying or levitation has always been a challenge with miniatures. Most gaming groups order pizza anyway, and you get these free elevation stands! In my current Sword & Planet campaign we are using them to represent hover skiffs. I have seen another DM mentioning the use of narrow straws on the tripod legs to raise them even higher. If you’re using a battle map it’s easy just to write elevations next to the stands as well. They also have various uses for spells such as <i>Spider Climb</i>, or even <i>Floating Disc</i>. The limit really is your imagination when it comes to little hacks such as this. Certainly, as a quick reference they make for an easy table visual that comes with a delicious treat!<br />
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<b>Dark Inspiration Dice</b><br />
I first mentioned these in my <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2016/04/curse-of-strahd-death-house.html">Death House</a> post last year when originally dreamed up. I have always been in favor of bennies (slang for benefits) in my D&D games. With the introduction of Inspiration as a mechanic in 5E I wanted to take it a step further. With Dark Inspiration, there is a pool of six-sided dice prominently displayed in the middle of the game table. At any time, a player may use this resource to increase an attack roll, skill check, or saving throw. The catch? The player also hands the DM one of the dice, who can use it anyway they see fit as the adventure progresses. For those of you starting <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/tomb-annihilation">Tomb of Annihilation</a>, this is a perfect mechanic to add more danger and suspense to the lands of Chult! In terms of creation, I used some old board game D6s and splattered them with reddish-brown acrylic paint. The blood represents the overall danger of using this power…as it will backfire on you eventually!<br />
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-64378638068988210052017-09-13T14:39:00.001-04:002017-09-13T15:11:17.286-04:00Tomb of Annihilation: Cinema Treasure Inspiration<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24wnkSsHw-wLQmNXzw-PmLUPaFE5mB35iUUQt5017r0rGEsOsADGkrM3MOqmrUc3hkGkhNRkBesd2Bgn51V_mfssnJZNriWWAEOP3sqsUG7jmlfcnMYJW54OaeJDentMpvVgnYE39gZ3R/s1600/Ta-Prohm-Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24wnkSsHw-wLQmNXzw-PmLUPaFE5mB35iUUQt5017r0rGEsOsADGkrM3MOqmrUc3hkGkhNRkBesd2Bgn51V_mfssnJZNriWWAEOP3sqsUG7jmlfcnMYJW54OaeJDentMpvVgnYE39gZ3R/s320/Ta-Prohm-Temple.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta Prohm Temples of Angkor</td></tr>
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With <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/tomb-annihilation">Tomb of Annihilation</a> being released, many adventurers will be braving the dangers of Chult. For the uninitiated, Chult is part of the Forgotten Realms setting. It’s a land of savage monsters, poisonous flora and fauna, and trackless jungles. As a setting, jungles have long been a favorite to explore by authors. Just to name a few inspirational ones:<br />
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<b>Arthur Conan Doyle: </b>The Lost World (1912)<br />
<b>Edgar Rice Burroughs: </b>The Land That Time Forgot (1918)<br />
<b>Michael Crichton:</b> Congo (1980)<br />
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The jungle is a perfect backdrop for a Dungeons & Dragons adventure. Under the great canopy there is little light, everything is mysterious, the heat and humidity oppressive, danger lurks in the shadows, and the unknown is ubiquitous. In terms of taking the players (and their characters) out of their comfort zone, a jungle setting certainly delivers.<br />
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Over the years there have been plenty of cinema experiences also that used the jungle. Below I have picked three with fun treasure inspiration for your Tomb of Annihilation campaign. After all, what would a jungle based adventure be without ancient ruins, deadly traps, and legendary treasures!<br />
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<b>Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7S_SIN7dmeVpJVZCuctIOfpH_20kZOOUewTIk3mdX4qUI3eCP631HHUGp0GxxU13JWNK6-QK2uRUKCzTtMP_QAxre1z4YDmF4H8kgabKvfQoGCim9vdyCsap4Uiq-CNDHgvLmnCrsO78/s1600/Golden+Idol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="800" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7S_SIN7dmeVpJVZCuctIOfpH_20kZOOUewTIk3mdX4qUI3eCP631HHUGp0GxxU13JWNK6-QK2uRUKCzTtMP_QAxre1z4YDmF4H8kgabKvfQoGCim9vdyCsap4Uiq-CNDHgvLmnCrsO78/s320/Golden+Idol.jpg" width="320" /></a>Can you hear the theme song yet? When you think of jungle adventurers, Indiana Jones is right at the top. The Golden Idol and the resulting consequences of looting it remain one of favorite cinema moments. The idol is a believed to be based on the Aztec goddess, Tlazolteotl. Her domains were interesting and covered purification, fertility, and filth. That said, this sounds like something perfect for a place such as Chult. Perhaps the idol can cure or minimize disease, but at great cost. Maybe there is a nasty curse associated with the idol? Replicas are available online from many different vendors and makes for a great table prop.<br />
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<b>Romancing the Stone (1984)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauRPDxbbD5dX25R2AqRHZhyhUGRRr3Jw8JTs1nNWC5EhA2kUnXCYCZHLLV1ZEg_0JDTSyQ3rlB54nQQj9YtbQ27pvi8T4reaVO936ar_9ICiV9Uq1iGNTLorSJgh988LMEnXmdRfmaKB8/s1600/El.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauRPDxbbD5dX25R2AqRHZhyhUGRRr3Jw8JTs1nNWC5EhA2kUnXCYCZHLLV1ZEg_0JDTSyQ3rlB54nQQj9YtbQ27pvi8T4reaVO936ar_9ICiV9Uq1iGNTLorSJgh988LMEnXmdRfmaKB8/s320/El.jpg" width="320" /></a>In this story, the adventurers are seeking a massive emerald named El Corazón ("The Heart"). The map and gemstone are perfect examples of easy table props. Players love handouts and a crystal gem such as this can be purchased at your local craft store. Gemstones are usually associated with fantastical treasure hunts, which are perfect for a Dungeons & Dragons game. Something like El Corazón would almost definitely come with curse, but also may be the key to something. In the very least the temptation of unearthing a massive gemstone makes for a wonderful side quest in the jungles of Chult.<br />
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<b>Jumanji (1995)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4lgjkc7qyM4YMM7apJjFKe7G1gUP63ZCY_6Dnso4NJxu47__sXpeyMd7xaomYuzCHBRgcPKw5xlr76UHlOT4o95C7P2kkPivafukFrcLcTh6AjfcqB5MCA04PRxh9Tpm_puorEmVjtc_/s1600/Jumanji.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4lgjkc7qyM4YMM7apJjFKe7G1gUP63ZCY_6Dnso4NJxu47__sXpeyMd7xaomYuzCHBRgcPKw5xlr76UHlOT4o95C7P2kkPivafukFrcLcTh6AjfcqB5MCA04PRxh9Tpm_puorEmVjtc_/s320/Jumanji.jpg" width="320" /></a>How fitting, a movie about a boy who is trapped in a board game! One of the things I always thought was cool were the actual Jumanji game pieces. The four animal shaped tokens include an elephant, crocodile, rhinoceros, and monkey. I think these would make perfect <a href="https://open5e.com/equipment/magic-items/figurine-of-wondrous-power.html">Figurines of Wondrous Power</a>! The characters could find an old copy of Jumanji, or alternatively some other Chultan game during their travels. For added coolness replicas of the figurines are <a href="https://jaysurma.wordpress.com/2015/05/06/jumanji-playing-pieces-get-ready/">available online</a> to use as game props.<br />
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In closing remember there is inspiration all around you. With a published adventure such as the Tomb of Annihilation, one of the best things you can do is make it your own. Borrow, steal, and use material from other sources liberally. The insertion of favorite moments from cinema and story makes for memorable Easter eggs at the game table. If your group is the type that appreciates inside jokes and nostalgic moments, got for it! Besides what DM does not want to unleash a giant boulder trap on the PCs? <b>Pro Tip: </b>Use a D100 and knock over the miniatures for added effect!<br />
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Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-54436667137774449532017-09-11T12:26:00.001-04:002017-09-11T12:47:27.570-04:00Review: DM's Screen Reincarnated/Tomb of Annihilation Dice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheddFwm6ZsT6w0FdNi5ppx1amG9tMS6iBeHvGzpnYMgqvAPdzNsT9d4-2VYppLb5ULfWNa5kU3ZJ67ziwpfgf4i7-YsbxrlE0bbq9Y407hFfy9rNSHoSmWIWMSUiPtatOMBRu4HvNciuyL/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1600" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheddFwm6ZsT6w0FdNi5ppx1amG9tMS6iBeHvGzpnYMgqvAPdzNsT9d4-2VYppLb5ULfWNa5kU3ZJ67ziwpfgf4i7-YsbxrlE0bbq9Y407hFfy9rNSHoSmWIWMSUiPtatOMBRu4HvNciuyL/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I have been using a <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2016/03/the-dungeon-masters-screen.html">Dungeon Master’s screen</a> since 1983 and have more iterations then I can count. One of the big disappointments with 5E has been the lack of a useful screen offering. Because of this most DMs have just created their own DIY solution, which still really is the best option. That being said, the <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/dungeon-masters-screen-reincarnated">Dungeon Master's Screen Reincarnated</a> is a step in the right direction.<br />
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The outside of the four-panel screen depicts an ancient red dragon by artist Tyler Jacobson. I would not have purchased the product if it were covered in Forgotten Realms locations or NPC heroes. The dragon is iconic and screams Dungeons & Dragons. This was a perfect selection by whoever was responsible for picking the artwork for this product.<br />
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Moving along, the most important part is the information behind the screen. Wizard’s FINALLY has given us a modern screen with useful reference material for the 5E Dungeon Master. Below are pictures of all four interior panels:<br />
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As you can see from above, the designers did a good job of populating these screens. I think the reference material they picked is commonly looked up by most groups. Also of note about this screen is the sturdy construction and landscape design. The latter is particularly nice since the screen does not tower over the table and obscure your view. So, would I recommend this product? Yes. I think this is a useful for tool for Dungeon Masters of all seasons.<br />
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I also purchased the <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/dd-tomb-annihilation-dice">Tomb of Annihilation dice</a> accessory. Just to be clear, I only purchased this for the tin box. The Green Devil face from the <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2017/04/surviving-tomb-of-horrors.html">Tomb of Horrors</a> is one of my favorite pieces of D&D imagery. The box is cool, but I was a bit disappointed in the product overall. The images of the tin and dice in the marketing material is a bit different. The tin is very green and the dice appear to have sharper edges, like <a href="http://www.gamescience.com/?AffId=3">Gamescience</a> dice. Instead the dice are rounded, seem a tad smaller then a normal set, and are a flat green color. Would I recommend this product? Only if you really want the box because the dice are certainly underwhelming.<br />
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-25523510667384203042017-08-15T13:53:00.000-04:002017-08-15T14:12:55.176-04:00Twelve Magic Torches <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A while ago I posted some information on how to add <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2016/02/that-old-school-torch.html">torch creation</a> to your campaign world. With 5th edition, one of the things that seems to have been cast aside is the common torch. In the early days of Dungeons and Dragons they were a staple. Now with the <i>Light </i>spell and Darkvision being so prevalent, hand held light sources are not overly valuable. That being said, I decided to spice torches up a bit!<br />
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Since ancient times, humans have associated magical properties with various types of wood. That theme fits wonderfully into a Dungeons & Dragons campaign world. For this idea let us assume that two versions of trees exist: one mundane, and one enchanted. The latter being rare and guarded jealously by druidic circles, malicious fey, and even xenophobic elves. Occasionally a sapling from one of these magic variations may appear in the lands of the common folk. Or alternatively, a group of adventurers may be retained to hunt and fell these trees. Imagine their surprise if a treant template was added to one!<br />
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Once prepared, the wood from these arcane trees make valuable torches. Although expensive in coin or trade, magic torches are something interesting to add to a merchant’s shelf. If you would like to add some flavor to your games, and see torches in the dungeon again, these may be a fun addition. Below please find twelve torch variations and their respective magical properties.<br />
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<b>Base Torch:</b><br />
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A torch burns for 1 hour, providing bright light in a 20-foot radius and dim light for an additional 20 feet. If you make a melee Attack with a burning torch and hit, it deals 1 fire damage.<br />
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<b>Magic Torch Subtype: </b><br />
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<b>01. Apple Wood: </b>Beware, fey are attracted to the dancing flames it creates. While holding the torch you may cast <i>Faerie Fire</i> one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>02. Ash Wood:</b> The smoke generated by this torch assists with concentration. Anyone within 10’ of the burning torch gains advantage on one <b>Intelligence</b> based roll before it burns out.<br />
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<b>03. Beech Wood: </b>The greenish flames of this torch have divination properties. While holding the torch you may cast <i>Augury</i> one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>04. Birch Wood:</b> This magic wood is favored in cleansing rituals. Druids of the deepest wild covet it. While holding the torch you may cast <i>Lesser Restoration </i>one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>05. Cedar Wood:</b> The smoke from this wood creates a hazy sphere of energy. While holding the torch you may cast <i>Protection from Good and Evil</i> one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>06. Cherry Wood: </b>Sylvan beings favor this wood as a magical focus. Anyone within 10’ of the burning torch gains advantage on one <b>Wisdom</b> based roll before it burns out.<br />
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<b>07. Elm Wood: </b>According to legend, the fey use this wood in rebirth rituals. While holding the torch over a fallen companion, you may cast <i>Spare the Dying</i> one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>08. Hickory Wood: </b>Druids have long used the blueish flames of this wood in their influence rituals. Anyone within 10’ of the burning torch gains advantage on one <b>Charisma</b> based roll before it burns out.<br />
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<b>09. Holly Wood:</b> A torch designed from this wood can double as a magic weapon. While holding the torch you may cast <i>Shillelagh </i>on it one time before it burns out. It still gets its +1 flame damage bonuses.<br />
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<b>10. Maple Wood:</b> The soothing warmth generated by this torch has legendary healing properties. Anyone within 10’ of the burning torch gains one extra hit die to spend during a short rest.<br />
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<b>11. Oak Wood:</b> Legend holds visions of great heroes can be seen if you stare into the flames of this wood. Anyone within 10’ of the burning torch is inspired with bravery, gaining +1 to hit one time before it burns out.<br />
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<b>12. Willow Wood: </b>Perhaps the rarest of magical trees, the flames generated from this wood are said to burn away the cold clutches of death. While holding the torch over a fallen companion, you may cast <i>Revivify</i> one time before it burns out.<br />
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As the effects above vary, I encourage each Dungeon Master to develop their own value system. Obviously purchasing these torches should not be prohibitively expensive, but we also don’t need characters with golf bags full of them. I would consider adding them as treasure items, and barter material from merchants. Additionally, the characters could find one of these trees and attempt to make torches themselves. Don’t be afraid to use these torches against the characters also! Finally, do you have ideas for other types of magical torches? Please feel free to share any with a follow-up post.Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-24286470300282355782017-08-08T15:24:00.000-04:002017-08-08T16:50:35.708-04:00The Great Ziggurat of DraconisI have awakened from my long blogging slumber! This past weekend was <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/06/ultracon-summer-gaming-weekend.html">Ultracon</a> 6, our friends and family convention. The theme for this year was a sunken city named Draconis, which had risen for various campaign reasons. We had fifteen players, in three groups of five playing the adventure. The player characters were submerged the entire day Saturday, which made for some interesting three-dimensional combat. To make the latter work better we created water stands that would slide up and down a dowel. After some quick measurements from a ruler, you were swimming up and down in no time!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our water stands in use for 3D combat!</td></tr>
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Their enemies included Deep Ones, Mind Flayers, Aboleth, and an Elder Brain. But the big battle would be at the Great Ziggurat at the center of the city. There <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/Miniatures/Bones/oldest/77190">Nethyrmaul the Undying</a>, the ancient dracolich, would be waiting for them. We designed the encounter so Nethyrmaul took turns attacking a different group each round. All the while the PCs had to deal with an army of ghouls, stone guards, paralyzing traps, and caustic water spouts.<br />
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To facilitate this, we decided a piece of custom terrain was needed. My friend Ike Horton, and fellow DM Team member, volunteered for the task. For background Ike is the person who introduced me to the Dungeons and Dragons game all the way back in <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/02/throwback-thursday-1983-nostalgia.html">1983</a>. He is also a very talented paper craft artist so it was no surprise the Great Ziggurat would be a visual feast when completed. Ike shared various progress pictures along the way to the DM Team, but nothing compared to when it was finally revealed.<br />
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As you can see from the pictures below, Ike made a monstrous piece of terrain. The entire ziggurat is scratch built and measures an eye popping 7’ long, 5’ high, and 3’ wide! We had to use four tables in the hotel just to set the ziggurat up before the big reveal to the players. One fantastic part of the design is all three sides separate from the main ziggurat. This way each of our three tables had a piece as the different groups battled their way to the top.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYeQv1byxj2JhxqKcTwVPb5MwOMYVVj3BuBCi2y_ziXGrrI09kAtIGR4AVxFpSvc2HUyVoysxBQmJhWE1avkdev8YgeWxmiD6hRQEuYjnx9AGoBdt8_rxAnKWpYqDWoTzq-AHgDhg1lAi/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYeQv1byxj2JhxqKcTwVPb5MwOMYVVj3BuBCi2y_ziXGrrI09kAtIGR4AVxFpSvc2HUyVoysxBQmJhWE1avkdev8YgeWxmiD6hRQEuYjnx9AGoBdt8_rxAnKWpYqDWoTzq-AHgDhg1lAi/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front view of the Great Ziggurat</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here you can see how the sides connected.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the sides.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzXz4GRtM2-PSyBDev64ShuL3tQx4NgdYe7BS6h7pegBcvN1uMTeSqQpX_SJAfnVEXervXzpbgkHFBdTpMGGrTwp5ppp0VLsVP7qGlooATboK3tg7owkSK67kCRBV7UXttmoBkVQ5SdGIm/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzXz4GRtM2-PSyBDev64ShuL3tQx4NgdYe7BS6h7pegBcvN1uMTeSqQpX_SJAfnVEXervXzpbgkHFBdTpMGGrTwp5ppp0VLsVP7qGlooATboK3tg7owkSK67kCRBV7UXttmoBkVQ5SdGIm/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up of a Tiamat sigil & caustic water spouts.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXoNCB96QMLI7jfUjFw4i3W_am-yVr3z-ScXszfHAZV1fRRKkOTUeI_v_f3pIhfjMiWCsmWVR9QWxIXfZAo95jrjatB0qpCHVVrH803fDiqWswrKiaLAeFBpZ48EAc88Poj2emiFI76x0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXoNCB96QMLI7jfUjFw4i3W_am-yVr3z-ScXszfHAZV1fRRKkOTUeI_v_f3pIhfjMiWCsmWVR9QWxIXfZAo95jrjatB0qpCHVVrH803fDiqWswrKiaLAeFBpZ48EAc88Poj2emiFI76x0/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nethyrmaul waiting for a PC to snack on.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4cmf0m2FigjesPLOy3mSqj5R6xSoHbY6HEs5an040HKv8EKwon3ZTBJCwGSRT7uGIqhr3kpXh-Oay_dfzUoh5Ap42iS_xDwajHy8ifjYmUKm5k9piYgJWGUkdyyojLtg-wf_aVo713ri/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="1600" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4cmf0m2FigjesPLOy3mSqj5R6xSoHbY6HEs5an040HKv8EKwon3ZTBJCwGSRT7uGIqhr3kpXh-Oay_dfzUoh5Ap42iS_xDwajHy8ifjYmUKm5k9piYgJWGUkdyyojLtg-wf_aVo713ri/s320/6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of a detached side at the game table.</td></tr>
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I just want to commend Ike again on his amazing work designing such an unforgettable game prop. You can find Ike on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ikehortonarts/">here</a>. If you have a piece of papercraft art in mind, or maybe even some custom gaming terrain contact him. Ike has a busy schedule, and often multiple commissions, but I’m sure he would love to hear from you!<br />
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We have already started working on Ultracon for next summer. If you have never tried, I highly recommend putting together a family and friends convention. It's very rewarding gathering together old friends and new for a weekend of gaming, camaraderie, and steel on steel! You would be surprised how many crafty people are in your circle, and all the amazing things you can create together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmtT_g58fe37C_tM_gWImRNckLpQO7YEeRosy2FHTQEBRR7VItka0GTUDLIzdTkt9MScI9gr3kLu-sWeGWbRqsU9fd56W_REHtL8T2NBsYcpA_j_tl0bLX_JfuT3x-X9r8Zo0AeDAF_GO/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmtT_g58fe37C_tM_gWImRNckLpQO7YEeRosy2FHTQEBRR7VItka0GTUDLIzdTkt9MScI9gr3kLu-sWeGWbRqsU9fd56W_REHtL8T2NBsYcpA_j_tl0bLX_JfuT3x-X9r8Zo0AeDAF_GO/s320/9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom terrain and props by another member of the DM Team.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVyQBZ4VqeoufjXYnlblcHMH5hL3RA9YFwv5x8eW2GgCptsnnRfxqZM4I64EpkeVZVBAoSfl7gJmhJIv36BMb1n82e3W0xxjNbo5LZMy_5DolLNax5v2YB70Vt6ZlIYv-CMKlnjl6vl4g/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVyQBZ4VqeoufjXYnlblcHMH5hL3RA9YFwv5x8eW2GgCptsnnRfxqZM4I64EpkeVZVBAoSfl7gJmhJIv36BMb1n82e3W0xxjNbo5LZMy_5DolLNax5v2YB70Vt6ZlIYv-CMKlnjl6vl4g/s320/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-55341039261453932582017-06-21T22:42:00.001-04:002017-08-08T15:35:24.941-04:00Review: D&D Character Sheets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMK_7vx29tcEmaPEut_EIoOJnEOPiF_cp_Ga8a031DT3ct2kwOYXvHcj7twHynl2-24SPASKuhkSPV5gRuFzOhcyKwG3LYlf-t9kRVGM717x2WP5gMgiLiFeLYBO3fNbJqCUEa2bus9bY/s1600/Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMK_7vx29tcEmaPEut_EIoOJnEOPiF_cp_Ga8a031DT3ct2kwOYXvHcj7twHynl2-24SPASKuhkSPV5gRuFzOhcyKwG3LYlf-t9kRVGM717x2WP5gMgiLiFeLYBO3fNbJqCUEa2bus9bY/s320/Front.jpg" width="320" /></a>So, this past weekend I decided to pick up new <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/charactersheets">Dungeons & Dragons Character Sheets</a>. Even though I can print character sheets to my heart’s content, it just seemed like a fun thing to do. Part of me was hoping to stir up old nostalgia, back when character sheets were a <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/10/throwback-thursday-character-sheets.html">rite of passage</a>! Unfortunately, I think Wizards of the Coast missed a big opportunity with this product. From a marketing stand point, I would not call this a success by any stretch of the imagination. <br />
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So what does it include?<br />
<br />
A “lavishly illustrated protective folder.” OK, it’s definitely illustrated, and with a cool ampersand, but I’m not sure what the skulls and roses are there for. Maybe a set of dice would have been a better choice? With <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/streamofannihilation">Stream of Annihilation</a>, and the announcement of the <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/tomb-annihilation">Tomb of Annihilation</a>, the artwork on these folders should have been the Green Devil Face. The timing was perfect, and it would have helped generate more excitement for those upcoming products.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycaz3mCJEewGJ3xMbSZGPW9sdMlajzy6cbEjZIKbZIDEvzrb-us2KqlKF-vCrHxpKSr-Si4iWWu4q5zSmQO2Fmc0zOPgPY33hyuzjvSSS09UHx29KTjamJ44BBA-mJ1eexqEgKVOA_so7/s1600/Stream-of-Annihilation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="622" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycaz3mCJEewGJ3xMbSZGPW9sdMlajzy6cbEjZIKbZIDEvzrb-us2KqlKF-vCrHxpKSr-Si4iWWu4q5zSmQO2Fmc0zOPgPY33hyuzjvSSS09UHx29KTjamJ44BBA-mJ1eexqEgKVOA_so7/s320/Stream-of-Annihilation.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This would have been such a cooler cover.</td></tr>
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Inside, the folder flaps contain the following helpful information:<br />
<ul>
<li>Actions you can take in combat.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Things you can do in tandem with movement.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Things you can do on your turn.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A place to write your name and character name. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJj6o9RAlHWxQbqrp04gl-Tu8AzEbQX-FtpmTScj7TWzf0_imh2g4xFhIOkSCB8zGU6KnUwFP80qpmD90_lfxGqSUCXsFwt9zI2C3XMgHYZS6YqJ85wtT-cQkEqVdkSQgPh6FCN3WS5QS4/s1600/Right+flap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJj6o9RAlHWxQbqrp04gl-Tu8AzEbQX-FtpmTScj7TWzf0_imh2g4xFhIOkSCB8zGU6KnUwFP80qpmD90_lfxGqSUCXsFwt9zI2C3XMgHYZS6YqJ85wtT-cQkEqVdkSQgPh6FCN3WS5QS4/s320/Right+flap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZGurYq7K45FdH02Qhqvdv9CTUYye7Kck3z34yNNUwL7x62-a_2eLw8vptfeHSU9hgvVrJznBPePicI5xDBxkPnWOa6-r8so8qBO4dftUHZ8QAlGl9X1gZOw31_DfiNPdY8rc54sVoRkH/s1600/Left+flap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZGurYq7K45FdH02Qhqvdv9CTUYye7Kck3z34yNNUwL7x62-a_2eLw8vptfeHSU9hgvVrJznBPePicI5xDBxkPnWOa6-r8so8qBO4dftUHZ8QAlGl9X1gZOw31_DfiNPdY8rc54sVoRkH/s320/Left+flap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I think all of the above is good reference material to place inside the folder. I see beginners and veteran players alike routinely forget this information. In terms of the character sheets my folder included:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Four copies of the <a href="http://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/5E_CHARACTERSHEETSV3.ZIP">default 5E character sheet</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Four copies of the <a href="http://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/5E_CHARACTERSHEETSV3.ZIP">alternative default 5E character sheet</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Four copies of <a href="http://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/5E_CHARACTERSHEETSV3.ZIP">default 5E spell sheet</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Four copies of a new sheet that does not include Personality Traits, Ideals, Bonds, and Flaws.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Eight copies of a new, single page introductory character sheet “designed specifically for new players.”</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZMWTR_0stLeMyREvjKPYIPaQB9pGZg7IVbHjuGu3HK7FWTCxw8SmAzR0o05knkUaYUWC5tRZNiTcIzN3r6DsTFXrjtPydEzwxf0zKz6nwV6X2I9Bau-JJSgdSeKkeHT5-95HZQQhucw1N/s1600/Default.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZMWTR_0stLeMyREvjKPYIPaQB9pGZg7IVbHjuGu3HK7FWTCxw8SmAzR0o05knkUaYUWC5tRZNiTcIzN3r6DsTFXrjtPydEzwxf0zKz6nwV6X2I9Bau-JJSgdSeKkeHT5-95HZQQhucw1N/s320/Default.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSWIBcSprzc9sz2zJd321FWsoY0SiFZzYtZHk-PKeXBbnu0ozFvW9VHrnvUQmCfBHNn1GXNF5LCew6-gYPyxTVzapMVR9vEoF6QGg8svLzKXxcFricBrNWaBUVpgiTEPHxTwlD94qqdFd/s1600/Default+Alternate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSWIBcSprzc9sz2zJd321FWsoY0SiFZzYtZHk-PKeXBbnu0ozFvW9VHrnvUQmCfBHNn1GXNF5LCew6-gYPyxTVzapMVR9vEoF6QGg8svLzKXxcFricBrNWaBUVpgiTEPHxTwlD94qqdFd/s320/Default+Alternate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhVrX-YIcA3Opp8jK_xJIBFGmqE8NrYzDcGt_A4lrPg0Mqb7eKzvTDFTmTiiZB5pbJuaJdupR0fOqoqmQWTLIacUPhvvEvHgmll_Bll7jPCFx5dKRjmDlHbt7XQnMip1yOFOBd_bxgL0H/s1600/New.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhVrX-YIcA3Opp8jK_xJIBFGmqE8NrYzDcGt_A4lrPg0Mqb7eKzvTDFTmTiiZB5pbJuaJdupR0fOqoqmQWTLIacUPhvvEvHgmll_Bll7jPCFx5dKRjmDlHbt7XQnMip1yOFOBd_bxgL0H/s320/New.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlJDc8xEmC4ikIjtLgCHDe18nQ_-aoo_fWbhklAPQByAWwD9dMvP_r4ePuiLavzceS9EFGlJSqb5hjHCBiH-9Jor7qbRKbWLjPopFD-7SXlfPozcbVYhh_Hwk-4iKZNZiLO8yule5eoJI/s1600/Intro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlJDc8xEmC4ikIjtLgCHDe18nQ_-aoo_fWbhklAPQByAWwD9dMvP_r4ePuiLavzceS9EFGlJSqb5hjHCBiH-9Jor7qbRKbWLjPopFD-7SXlfPozcbVYhh_Hwk-4iKZNZiLO8yule5eoJI/s320/Intro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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OK, so just to recap, three of the five included products you can already <a href="http://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/5E_CHARACTERSHEETSV3.ZIP">download </a>and print for free. The modified new sheet is certainly not worth the price of admission. The thing I’m most disappointed in however the introductory character sheet. I think from a design standpoint the larger boxes were a good idea. The sheet is definitely easier to read, especially for a new player who is learning for the first time. But the back of the sheet is blank! They could have at least included the information contained on the folder flaps.<br />
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So what else would I have done to improve this? Well going along with my Green Devil Face idea I would have included some green colored character sheets. You know like the old school basic sheets? Hell, include the Green Devil Face in the design! That at least would have made the product more unique, and worth its $10 price tag. I would have kept some white versions as well for those who wish to scan the sheets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC72P9G_lcOZ7oUViqHVw-ZWBVt_TETs8e5UaXZPZ63SnXRugEUf7aVAGYCoLPbgkxpmAnmNYz50NdfMmrfvcx9oP4yrBeXwsSDV4uMzvpQtZAlVC6E7LntEbXT4r6SKpzP41fCEDTFtis/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC72P9G_lcOZ7oUViqHVw-ZWBVt_TETs8e5UaXZPZ63SnXRugEUf7aVAGYCoLPbgkxpmAnmNYz50NdfMmrfvcx9oP4yrBeXwsSDV4uMzvpQtZAlVC6E7LntEbXT4r6SKpzP41fCEDTFtis/s320/1.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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If you don’t have access to a printer, or maybe you’re a collector, then definitely check these out. Overall I think this was a cool idea but poorly executed. Oh well, not every product can be a critical hit. Have fun playing the game, and remember sometimes the best character sheet is just a piece of notebook paper, a 3x5 card, or whatever else you can scribble your hit points on!Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-23166185213499075912017-05-18T11:16:00.002-04:002017-05-18T11:43:26.315-04:00Throwback Thursday: Gaming Unplugged<a href="http://www.gamescience.com/?AffId=3" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.gamescience.com/?AffId=3" border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9n6E9iHFqLDZ4P2zsLi87SfGEdxFeOyMg8hjrzhIaD7VWjqxGQ_ywEimmMxlVx_3pBHB-ew1D1zBUNCv2Pg83HXeAfB0kPltGlJT6ANdseisYahtnJDBUxAMMdB_hiGP6Vr2iaU5B9Sq/s200/Gamescienceturquoise.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>UNPLUG definitions.</b><br />
<i>disconnect (an electrical device) by removing its plug from a socket.</i><br />
<i>
remove an obstacle or blockage from.</i><br />
<i>
relax by disengaging from normal activities.</i><br />
<br />
Looking that those definitions, I can’t help but to think back to simpler times. Back when the phone was attached to the wall, and NEVER in anyone’s hand all the time. In 2014, Android users combined looked at their phones one billion times a day, according to Google I/O’s keynote! Fast forward to 2017, and I’m sure those numbers are even more staggering. So how do we detox from this smartphone addiction? Well, one great way is to unplug for a few hours and play tabletop games!<br />
<br />
Smartphones at the game table are a pet peeve of mine, and unless someone needs to be on call, not permitted. How can you possibly be immersing yourself in the tabletop experience if you are surfing social media? It reminds me of a friend who went to Disney with another family. He explained how the oldest daughter spent most of her time posting selfies. It was more important to let everyone know what she was doing, rather than to enjoy the experience herself.<br />
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I found all the pictures below at <a href="https://2warpstoneptune.com/category/dd/dd-portraits/">2warpstoneptune</a>, and thought they were perfect. Do me a favor and look them over for fun and nostalgia. But most importantly, what device is missing?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WjVZOLoDiMEdAY0DEhjUH2dSq6lm0qINmP-1JCQ26Bu5yhefOg7e_sAiTICl2lP8FUKjLFgQg16JTi-zzHk-jZjDQ1ofSAGaYC4xhEfVd1HhlQY95j8Kpk3cXu0mBzNcMtiPkvyyueG6/s1600/1978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WjVZOLoDiMEdAY0DEhjUH2dSq6lm0qINmP-1JCQ26Bu5yhefOg7e_sAiTICl2lP8FUKjLFgQg16JTi-zzHk-jZjDQ1ofSAGaYC4xhEfVd1HhlQY95j8Kpk3cXu0mBzNcMtiPkvyyueG6/s320/1978.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1978</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUzGIC6jxD5Vkw-5o1WGk-VXt4ePuv3JoQ17wtpeZaeuyd27ciDlZJ4N9EjW8WyRS5sZwPjw5-KdsKiANNNGnVwVjykFZ-3anmZXd48KU0LqC2yNa6AUiIecWGXxSOMhD72b9CwEpUm3b/s1600/1981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUzGIC6jxD5Vkw-5o1WGk-VXt4ePuv3JoQ17wtpeZaeuyd27ciDlZJ4N9EjW8WyRS5sZwPjw5-KdsKiANNNGnVwVjykFZ-3anmZXd48KU0LqC2yNa6AUiIecWGXxSOMhD72b9CwEpUm3b/s320/1981.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1981</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjblmD2ahb2Uof77HLNiAncx9iqEVAwFfRSQ2bN3O7RHURJuhWzPIr7kmLV71SxVkeV-7msh68MfPcv4Wnx2p9-8Fcd6MSV2ArhMekzBjg3c7ux3nqDGsaG18b3SJG_GY1Kx_ifHqPn9OaB/s1600/1982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjblmD2ahb2Uof77HLNiAncx9iqEVAwFfRSQ2bN3O7RHURJuhWzPIr7kmLV71SxVkeV-7msh68MfPcv4Wnx2p9-8Fcd6MSV2ArhMekzBjg3c7ux3nqDGsaG18b3SJG_GY1Kx_ifHqPn9OaB/s320/1982.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1982</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzN-_zKeBp5dYb9rACvohiGoL6qIURAN2ukGw9UXxa9uJKYi9NsoNfOuwNr0xx-LwpqILZ6SB8VQiMhFe6XqLeR2Ze4cd9JPjyvVDERZI3-UZtwfZXDqZ_PFB6IMsAyJHKfBWd_rnkocB/s1600/1984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzN-_zKeBp5dYb9rACvohiGoL6qIURAN2ukGw9UXxa9uJKYi9NsoNfOuwNr0xx-LwpqILZ6SB8VQiMhFe6XqLeR2Ze4cd9JPjyvVDERZI3-UZtwfZXDqZ_PFB6IMsAyJHKfBWd_rnkocB/s320/1984.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1984</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk98GRvc0bk_gJI-04RTEvHQfdtlr9p2nvQWdh75vsjM6r9rouS7OqcGGPbFv77CqiZe0poFxunNYkQeZULVldj315aOVrvZ-p59C86wEydKp5VistgMZBWbMp3Jmy179Ew1mHWl4w3pDy/s1600/1985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk98GRvc0bk_gJI-04RTEvHQfdtlr9p2nvQWdh75vsjM6r9rouS7OqcGGPbFv77CqiZe0poFxunNYkQeZULVldj315aOVrvZ-p59C86wEydKp5VistgMZBWbMp3Jmy179Ew1mHWl4w3pDy/s320/1985.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1985</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYszM_BxLpgmQqNK93ALNEZ2d33QvfE_LlR0clbi7OyiEr8tPurPvQu-hDuFYzY0VNblbM03SCiBnWa0Fkiq2VRB3yvcXNOrYhY4sTJrOyxnV-YgISj_HeCZFa3sYFCzLcfaN43oenYA2J/s1600/1986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYszM_BxLpgmQqNK93ALNEZ2d33QvfE_LlR0clbi7OyiEr8tPurPvQu-hDuFYzY0VNblbM03SCiBnWa0Fkiq2VRB3yvcXNOrYhY4sTJrOyxnV-YgISj_HeCZFa3sYFCzLcfaN43oenYA2J/s320/1986.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1986</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYBJ34C4l26TIJh4jleVDfdkAWP0NbGmh8yyFO7odFr3pzJiLy4kSvlI3eHgWKrZpozBr8wABjQqBQuZNGmlRfBu3vOcscS8fd5eY85BjpxQhyP8bcFaY8m8MrXgUmekNYc74tZO-zLfb/s1600/1987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYBJ34C4l26TIJh4jleVDfdkAWP0NbGmh8yyFO7odFr3pzJiLy4kSvlI3eHgWKrZpozBr8wABjQqBQuZNGmlRfBu3vOcscS8fd5eY85BjpxQhyP8bcFaY8m8MrXgUmekNYc74tZO-zLfb/s320/1987.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1987</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI3OXekIgJZ8G5kWp-lzYH-QSQd7LY7FZ_3HqOIuuvMvOWFUPp9fOfnxBWiso58QV9sdgc-hB3Kx1t7b2K1O8fGjOflUGOHq_wvcha2zMF00hGN0HjbwZTdEy2v-I1uOdEU2BxWI-qDNu/s1600/1988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI3OXekIgJZ8G5kWp-lzYH-QSQd7LY7FZ_3HqOIuuvMvOWFUPp9fOfnxBWiso58QV9sdgc-hB3Kx1t7b2K1O8fGjOflUGOHq_wvcha2zMF00hGN0HjbwZTdEy2v-I1uOdEU2BxWI-qDNu/s320/1988.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1988</td></tr>
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<b>No smartphones! </b>I’m sure someone might say, “well duh, they were not invented yet.” If that is your retort, then I will suggest you have missed the point of this post entirely. The gamers at these tables are experiencing the session together, role-playing, and having a blast. They are not allowing a voluntary, external source to distract them. Look, no one can accuse me of being some crusty old guy that does not like technology. I use my smartphone liberally, and post on social media platforms all the time. But when I play a tabletop game, I like the escapism, and everyone unplugged.<br />
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In my last post, <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2017/05/i-was-10-year-old-dungeon-master.html">I was a 10-year-Old Dungeon Master,</a> I spoke about recapturing your imagination. Being willing to put down your smartphone for the majority, if not all a game session, will help with that. You must make time for yourself, free of external distractions, as an adult. It’s great that someone posted a picture of their favorite pizza slice on Facebook, or a new meme appeared on Twitter, but how does that pertain to your tabletop experience? The essential point is it can all wait until a break, or after the game session.<br />
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In all honesty, I think we are seeing a renaissance of sorts in terms of being unplugged. People really need to interact in a face-to-face social setting. That is why we see so many tabletop related Kickstarters, and even a new convention in Philadelphia this November, <a href="http://unplugged.paxsite.com/">Pax Unplugged</a>. By the way, I will be there, and maybe even running a game session. That said, your smartphones may need to make a saving throw!<br />
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But it’s just not us that needs to learn how to do this. Everywhere I go tweens and teens have their faces buried in their devices. Pull your kids away from the smartphone abyss occasionally, even if they protest, for some tabletop gaming. The adage of “everything in moderation” could not ring any truer. In my professional career, I see 20-somethings that have virtually no ability to articulate themselves in a face-to-face setting. But they sure can fire off emails all day long! Just a theory, and anecdotal at best, but I bet that has a something to do with not unplugging enough.<br />
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So get out there for some fun tabletop when you can. Gaming unplugged need not just be a throwback, it can be all the time!<br />
<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-48127435188417942942017-05-10T12:45:00.000-04:002017-05-10T12:54:27.385-04:00I was a 10-Year-Old Dungeon Master<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xa7Kdi1iK6FFiy9wpQ89R6Q9cAumfK3Cw320BKoCxezChQcZhrR6b8cIjQ3OK3GGFUerIfv-mgz1jgIpb1nipLYpIvIaev4lBtdXWh4vr3ktA49QGiyYTtZcTgboPa_AE2QMYotwMc8D/s1600/DM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xa7Kdi1iK6FFiy9wpQ89R6Q9cAumfK3Cw320BKoCxezChQcZhrR6b8cIjQ3OK3GGFUerIfv-mgz1jgIpb1nipLYpIvIaev4lBtdXWh4vr3ktA49QGiyYTtZcTgboPa_AE2QMYotwMc8D/s320/DM.jpg" width="183" /></a>It was the summer of 1984, and I sat at the dining room table writing. Ironically in the background, the 1963 film Jason and the Argonauts played on the television. My imagination was on fire since later that day I would be dungeon mastering some neighborhood kids. I was staying at my grandmother’s house in Philadelphia, and these were new players. I had just started reading Ian Livingstone’s <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2014/06/throwback-thursday-deathtrap-dungeon.html">Deathtrap Dungeon</a>, so of course that inspired me to make a similar scenario. With some graph paper and a pencil, I toiled away filling rooms with monsters and traps.<br />
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My grandmother had an ornate dining table, with metal studs on the legs. The tall chairs that complemented it seemed like something from Hrothgar’s mead hall in Beowulf. One of my cousins walked by and suggested I look at the National Geographic magazine she just finished reading. It had an article about exploring a 140-year-old ship under arctic ice. This was a great stuff. It seemed like all around me there was high octane imagination fuel to inspire my games. Everything about Dungeons & Dragons was new, and there just was not enough hours in the day to play it!<br />
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Fast forward several decades, and countless players are trying to recapture those early days. You know the ones where you played all weekend long in a Mountain Dew induced stupor? When there was no internet, and RPG information came from print magazines or the local hobby shop? Most importantly, when YOUR imagination was the primary force behind the game. Sure, there was outside influences, but nothing like the media overload of today. In those early days of the hobby we were less connected to the world, but maybe a tad more connected to our own creative process.<br />
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For years now players have tried to re-capture those early days by dusting off older editions, making retro clones, and soaking up any nostalgia they can find. While those things may be helpful, I would suggest it’s only part of the solution. Social media is replete with articles, opinions, and even entire web series dedicated to watching people play Dungeons & Dragons. There is certainly value in all these things, but it may not be the medicine you’re looking for. Instead you really need to go back to basics, to simpler days when your own imagination did the heavy lifting.<br />
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So, you’re a busy adult with a family or maybe a career that is demanding, or worse both! It’s hard work trying to make it to scheduled games and even harder to design them. You look to blogs like this one, and other places on social media for inspiration and ideas. Then it becomes easier just to play in someone else's imagination entirely, and soon the game sessions don’t have that “magic” anymore. Hmmm, it must be the edition, or maybe you’re just tired, or perhaps you have just outgrown this silly game?<br />
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All of those are wrong! You just need to make time for your 10-year-old self to fire its imagination back up. You cannot allow yourself to become so saturated with outside influences that you can no longer think for yourself. Now I’m not suggesting you stop being inspired by the works of others. Liberally steal ideas from everything and make them part of your sessions or character! But if you want to head down the path of the old days, you absolutely need to re-kindle your own imagination. This could be while you’re driving in your car, enjoying your morning coffee, or just a walk through the park.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDT-Fi7939GWu_PVQ-CpHG588rPi9gX-k2Tjx2hHagtOTKTowmARHoVHg7uWvnkABPMt5INq8RS3jqeOyE7jYs4oiFLCruBgOcm8sgZdM0Z4ZJhukJkW2k8zrKwU_m_-rshfONFJAzcqQL/s1600/Ultanya+Imagine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDT-Fi7939GWu_PVQ-CpHG588rPi9gX-k2Tjx2hHagtOTKTowmARHoVHg7uWvnkABPMt5INq8RS3jqeOyE7jYs4oiFLCruBgOcm8sgZdM0Z4ZJhukJkW2k8zrKwU_m_-rshfONFJAzcqQL/s400/Ultanya+Imagine.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Every time an idea pops into your head jot them down! This could be on a 3x5 card or via an email you send yourself. Don’t let that fire burn out! Eventually you will have enough imagination fuel gathered to start your engines. You know, the 10-year-old engine that was full of wonder and approached the game wide-eyed at every turn? Sure, we will probably never get those days back fully, but damn we can try. Like most things, role-playing games benefit from everything in moderation.<br />
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Do your best to balance using the material of others with your own. As kids playing the game, we HAD to make stuff up. An allowance alone did not pay for many game books or modules. Now as an adult, you may be bankrolled to purchase anything you want. My game closet is evidence of that alone, but I still use the material as inspiration. I have never allowed myself to be completely pulled away from home brewing RPG material.<br />
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In closing, remember that Dungeons & Dragons is about sitting around with some friends and using your imagination. As an adult, I find the creative and playing process just fantastic escapism. I love nostalgia as much as the next player, but the continued experience of the game is much more satisfying. These tips may not work for everyone, but they have kept my RPG engines running for decades. Now that my own son is a 10-year old Dungeon Master, I see the process starting all over again. Wow, what awesome adventures await him and his friends!<br />
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Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-74153548528776120352017-04-18T13:23:00.000-04:002017-04-18T14:07:07.959-04:00Need a Dungeon Master?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJI7WBo2z8t2B_T3iB4Gci-ZW2Rb12bszk1tKctwUzAJv_054toNhx7OYNJ5hPioRQgh6uWil9lv0WGj6rF46BzACLPwqee24QlaNpimYTngLNz9IduQe00IXCK8LIxCqbRJuuOcilmC2A/s1600/Group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJI7WBo2z8t2B_T3iB4Gci-ZW2Rb12bszk1tKctwUzAJv_054toNhx7OYNJ5hPioRQgh6uWil9lv0WGj6rF46BzACLPwqee24QlaNpimYTngLNz9IduQe00IXCK8LIxCqbRJuuOcilmC2A/s400/Group.jpg" width="300" /></a>So, you want to play D&D but there are no Dungeon Masters in your area. There are plenty of characters all dressed up with nowhere to go? Then it’s time to become the Dungeon Master yourself! For many people, just the idea of taking on this responsibility causes anxiety. I will be honest with you, it takes a tremendous amount of courage to step into that role for the first time. Studies have shown the only thing people fear more than their mortality is public speaking. Sure, you may be DMing for friends and family only, but it still involves putting yourself out there at the head of the table.<br />
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I’m here to tell you that none of that should dissuade you. Without a Dungeon Master the game simply cannot be played. Someone must be the organizer and do all the creative work to make the game come together. This is what <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/02/throwback-thursday-1983-nostalgia.html">happened</a> when I was ten-years old, and I had no idea what I was doing. But let me tell you, wow was it fun! Thinking back to those earlier days, one of the reasons for my success was because we played with only a shadow of the rules.<br />
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A common theme I see in other blog posts about Dungeon Mastering is, “you must be an expert on the rules”, and I’m here to tell you that is a load of crapola. Please don’t let that stop you from taking up the Dungeon Master mantle. Without getting into edition wars, I recommend using a more rules light system for first time DMs. This will allow you to hand wave things more often. An important skill of a good DM is making rulings, not looking up rules. Furthermore, if you have a rules lawyer at your table, they are effectively disarmed in a rules light RPG.<br />
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Systems with complicated combat, or voluminous character options can end any fledgling DM’s career. Trust me, you have enough to keep track of with the adventure being played to worry about that sort of minutia. If those sorts of things appeal to you, they can always be re-visited later when you are more seasoned as a DM. Dungeons & Dragons is foremost a collaborative story-telling game. If you want work on an early skill, that is the one to focus on. Anyone can use charts, measurements, and roll dice. The ability to become any NPC, describe the environment, and shoot from the hip is what sets the great DMs apart from the rest.<br />
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Another valuable lesson I learned over the years is different personalities affect the ebb and flow of the game session. The one to be on the lookout for is akin to a jury foreman. They speak the most, are usually veteran gamers, and will play the session for everyone if permitted. As a fledgling DM, this personality may confound or exasperate you and the other players.<br />
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The best way to handle this situation is by establishing good DMing habits early. There will also be quiet or timid players at your table, or just less aggressive players then the jury foreman. It’s imperative to get into the habit of going around the table to ask everyone what their characters are doing. Don’t let the jury foreman speak out of turn, or rush other player’s decisions unnecessarily. Everyone deserves the spotlight, and it’s your job as the game referee to make sure that happens.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_XwHcq6FxcS7x_6SJV52W2ApWChX2lRK0sGjCu2ldLzusc8XNZ_dGIB0MjnbdRoYO6P8HD1CyN5JPYql1KV0zz2Ao1OM3A7ihKTHU0H9F86vDJeaTYpExnqSRzUOYjpRzVyi2_tA_Cnx/s1600/stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_XwHcq6FxcS7x_6SJV52W2ApWChX2lRK0sGjCu2ldLzusc8XNZ_dGIB0MjnbdRoYO6P8HD1CyN5JPYql1KV0zz2Ao1OM3A7ihKTHU0H9F86vDJeaTYpExnqSRzUOYjpRzVyi2_tA_Cnx/s320/stress.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foam dice make good stress balls...or objects to toss at players!</td></tr>
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The final thing I would like to offer some advice on is criticism. Over the years, I have gotten into the habit of asking everyone what they liked or disliked after a session. It’s a good idea to take the temperature of your group occasionally to make sure everyone is on the same page. For the most part after several decades now I have found this information invaluable. However, occasionally someone will feel the need to offer unproductive DMing advice. Interestingly, the source is usually someone who has never sat behind the DM screen in their life. Or alternatively, you can count on two hands the number of times they have.<br />
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Don’t let these experiences frustrate you into giving up Dungeon Mastering. I will tell you now it can be a thankless job, but you are very much needed to keep the hobby alive. Just look at any of the big game conventions for evidence of DM demand. Every year they are scrambling to find people to run games. Why? Because it’s much more work than just sitting down to play the game. As a DM, you are the coordinator, designer, production crew, and ALL the supporting characters.<br />
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If story and world building appeals to you, Dungeon Mastering is something you should try. The early stages of your DMing career will have some bumps in the road. But like anything in life, with a little perseverance the experience is very rewarding. Don’t let any of the potential issues I highlighted keep you from running a game session. Rather be on guard for them, have fun, and keep the hobby alive!<br />
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If you are a veteran player who reminisces about the days of old, why not take up the DM mantle? I love talking about games sessions from decades ago also. Old characters are like friends and we speak of their adventures with fondness. That said, there is plenty of time for new stories and your player experience make you perfect for Dungeon Mastering. Don’t just read about RPGs on social media, get involved again!<br />
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Also, if you are that veteran player attending a session with a new DM, take it easy on them. Don’t be a hindrance or take advantage of their lack of system savvy. If you truly want to have regular sessions to play, then being supportive is very important. This is especially true in the public game arena, where the <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2017/02/be-kind-please-rewind.html">RPG trolls</a> sometimes crawl out from under their stones. Don’t let a troll sour a fledgling DM into potentially quitting the practice all together.<br />
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Dungeon Masters, we salute you! Thank you for running the game on behalf of the countless players out there. Remember relax, and don't sweat the small stuff. You will make make wrong decisions, blunder rulings, and misread your group occasionally. All that matters is that everyone had fun, because that is what this wonderful hobby is all about!<br />
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<br />Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-55990705802408187012017-04-06T13:52:00.000-04:002017-04-06T14:49:31.703-04:00Surviving the Tomb of Horrors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKG4DIrKtPGvMK9-8AnI1jddXFijkVm_UcbAz0J8Lp5SZe3qIRYTpH6A92DDUo8x0Xi__UqVxVtJv4CDekIoxzbL-1kTpzaia7r9FYszbrxkZOOItLZvMKWoEn92SEh5Nhn_can7WaeQw/s1600/cANDY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKG4DIrKtPGvMK9-8AnI1jddXFijkVm_UcbAz0J8Lp5SZe3qIRYTpH6A92DDUo8x0Xi__UqVxVtJv4CDekIoxzbL-1kTpzaia7r9FYszbrxkZOOItLZvMKWoEn92SEh5Nhn_can7WaeQw/s200/cANDY.jpg" width="138" /></a>While looking through my copy of <a href="http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/tales-yawning-portal">Tales from the Yawning Portal</a> I felt compelled to blog about the Tomb of Horrors. Well here is the bad news, you probably won’t survive! There are some things you need to consider before sitting down to play the Tomb of Horrors. All those old-school vibes you hear us grognards grumble about? They will help you have a positive experience!<br />
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For this adventure, you need to think beyond the four corners of your character sheet. Modern D&D does a good job of trying to portray a character’s abilities and life experiences through game mechanics. However, with the Tomb of Horrors, the players cannot just rely on that fail safe.<br />
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Instead you must really take in the environment and use your wits to explore it. Ask questions, lots of them. The Tomb will test the mettle and patience of most players, since you cannot hack-n-slash your way through it. The latter is a consideration you must marinate on as a player before attending a session. This is an adventure of restraint and creativity on the part of the players. Suddenly mundane items modern players like to poke fun at, like a <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2015/03/throwback-thursday-10-pole.html">10’ pole</a>, have immense value.<br />
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The Tomb of Horrors always makes me think of the opening scene from Raiders of the Lost Ark. Indiana Jones, using a regular item like bag of sand, switches it for the golden idol. He has arguably made his dexterity save to accomplish this, but alas it does not matter. A whole series of traps are initiated as a result interacting with the idol. This is the sort of experience which can happen in the Tomb of Horrors. Employing the same strategy will not work in every room or passage. You really need to expect the unexpected and prepare for the worst, as it’s around every corner.<br />
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Be forewarned, the Tomb of Horrors is like playing a game of dungeon roulette. I would suggest experiencing it as a one-off or “what-if” adventure if you use regular characters. This way if a long standing favorite character is lost, it does not really count in terms of the continuity of your campaign. Even Gary Gygax himself on this <a href="http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?22566-Q-amp-A-with-Gary-Gygax/page548&p=2868042&viewfull=1#post2868042">EN World </a>posting from 2006 warned against using favorite characters:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenjaE081veK75eacKqhsB_UxuJkB_C9LCMxExRyxWFxcrqn7x4UY6Sp9wzXvi5CCG08Z6_J3gbNpwgXbDmCp0Kdnh_QtcEGE7BWX3hK6SGKcgNq9_mIVowTbS-YjyeZVhCnMyJfKngoux/s1600/Gygax.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenjaE081veK75eacKqhsB_UxuJkB_C9LCMxExRyxWFxcrqn7x4UY6Sp9wzXvi5CCG08Z6_J3gbNpwgXbDmCp0Kdnh_QtcEGE7BWX3hK6SGKcgNq9_mIVowTbS-YjyeZVhCnMyJfKngoux/s400/Gygax.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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So, what does it mean to really survive the Tomb of Horrors? In my opinion, any expedition into the tomb which results in exploration and the characters leaving is a success. We could probably count on two hands the number of players who have legitimately defeated the tomb over the years. I’m sure social media will have some boasting now that Tales from the Yawning Portal has unearthed the Tomb again. A DM wearing kid gloves or heavily home-brewed characters do not count! And quite honestly, if that is what it takes for a group to defeat the tomb, they have entirely missed the point.<br />
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The Tomb of Horrors is the final resting place of an incredibly powerful being. It does NOT want anyone or anything robbing its treasures, even in undeath. The tomb can be a deadly meat grinder that to some extent does absolutely rely on your skill as a player. Sure, that style of play may not be for everyone, as it’s a departure from heavy dice rolling to explore the game world. Instead, using your ability to observe, experiment, and think about the environment and the tools available to your character is best. For all you D&D greenhorns out there, trust me, it will make you a better player.<br />
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<i><b>Know you well adventurer, that survival is unlikely, but should you succeed the bards will sing your tale!</b></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDs6M4XK1gUFkgIALXAYF4w4CyXsWCqH7DGh7s2V-N-vXtawfYRjqOFSqt9DzFTsXpUPQxqket5gYB504FKxso8rD3bPDWFTT0PO56-cB984eGkHgRw67m6K5sO9IMshAF62KzgNv9ta6/s1600/TYP+Excerpt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDs6M4XK1gUFkgIALXAYF4w4CyXsWCqH7DGh7s2V-N-vXtawfYRjqOFSqt9DzFTsXpUPQxqket5gYB504FKxso8rD3bPDWFTT0PO56-cB984eGkHgRw67m6K5sO9IMshAF62KzgNv9ta6/s400/TYP+Excerpt.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tales from the Yawning Portal excerpt.</td></tr>
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Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8211184512153699005.post-17998308802840949102017-03-20T18:36:00.000-04:002017-06-22T13:51:27.728-04:00Review: RPG Coasters 2, Cthulhu.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6yamH_L08mq7JzeK9-EqQJcU412yuSIBR-ijJPpCnlT7asPc0KU7qyct2m-OYlsz_WXIy9LeAHElY_qAaG28DqKZ7Ml7S_ZoNvsY-idChcm9nYUSduMBUlx1E66KcFkt8g7Vm1PLDwxl/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6yamH_L08mq7JzeK9-EqQJcU412yuSIBR-ijJPpCnlT7asPc0KU7qyct2m-OYlsz_WXIy9LeAHElY_qAaG28DqKZ7Ml7S_ZoNvsY-idChcm9nYUSduMBUlx1E66KcFkt8g7Vm1PLDwxl/s320/001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Alexander Ingram has just launched his second RPG Coasters <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ingramwoodworking/rpg-coasters-2-cthulhu">Kickstarter</a>! The theme this time? <b>Cthulhu</b>. For the uninitiated, the name is pronounced in some circles as kuh-THOOL-hoo. Now be careful when saying that to loud, as it may awaken H.P. Lovecraft’s Elder One from its eternal madness. That said, per mythos the human tongue cannot accurately pronounce it anyway.<br />
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The Call of Cthulhu was first published in the February, 1928 edition of <i>Weird Tales</i>. The creature was an elder god held inside a sunken city named R’lyeh, which featured bizarre, non-Euclidean architecture. Fast forward to 2017 and this sort of material is a wonderful playground for role-playing games. When beings such as Cthulhu threaten to break free of their cosmic prisons, investigators and adventurers must put a stop to it! Well that is what the GM tells you anyway, before your character becomes a blithering idiot from cosmic madness.<br />
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“It seemed to be a sort of monster, or symbol representing a monster, of a form which only a diseased fancy could conceive. If I say that my somewhat extravagant imagination yielded simultaneous pictures of an octopus, a dragon, and a human caricature, I shall not be unfaithful to the spirit of the thing.” <br />
<b>― H.P. Lovecraft, The Call of Cthulhu</b> <br />
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With that background, Lovecraftian novice and veteran alike can appreciate this new RPG Coasters theme. I love to review cool gaming swag, and these gorgeous coasters stand apart. Full disclosure, Alex sent me this set to review ahead of the Kickstarter launch. So, consider this a sneak peek if you are marinating about pledging. These are identical in construction to the fantasy themed coasters which I <a href="http://www.ultanya.com/2016/06/review-rpg-coasters.html">reviewed here</a>. If you want to see how the coasters match up to different types of drinking vessels, I encourage you to visit that link.<br />
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Alex does all the work personally on these coasters in his basement workshop. The coasters are offered in beautiful hardwoods of Cherry, Hard Maple, and Black Walnut. The latter seems to really make Cthulhu pop on my sample <i>Keeper </i>coaster! These same materials were offered and delivered in the first <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ingramwoodworking/rpg-coasters">RPG Coasters Kickstarter</a>.<br />
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“seemed instinct with a fearsome and unnatural malignancy, was of a somewhat bloated corpulence, and squatted evilly on a rectangular block or pedestal covered with undecipherable characters.” <br />
<b>― H.P. Lovecraft, The Call Of Cthulhu</b><br />
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One of the things that really jumped out at me with this new set was the level of detail. The coasters and all the artwork on them are CNC (computer numerical control) routed by a several machines Alex created in his shop. The<i> Antiquarian</i> coaster may be my favorite since it contains an interpretation of Lovecraft’s own sketch from 1934. For reference, the etching on the coaster is about an inch tall!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaeVOpU0kcFe5h5tiLmCUnMQuj41TNkXQIrO-95IXA_BXy1djaMhlkUZiuYOOazcCBMdQSSBRZo5Jt3X2Ygt-6bnym9Xh7tafIRX0ufoZ-jGxYaVJq07jTdXmtc83Pd01FBpx8Ic2lS9m5/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaeVOpU0kcFe5h5tiLmCUnMQuj41TNkXQIrO-95IXA_BXy1djaMhlkUZiuYOOazcCBMdQSSBRZo5Jt3X2Ygt-6bnym9Xh7tafIRX0ufoZ-jGxYaVJq07jTdXmtc83Pd01FBpx8Ic2lS9m5/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQ5u0psIsNh3E919O_gLd9NM0N1Md1CX-SOkNwQNImUaasJa5WU9KVsHHNsiO8m33Te9VozZbc1NGupCOkLNAiwKZzERrTTs13nvQCX-3r4LUq5aKsJMzWIWgkJDeLtnJo017ySkh6FTy/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQ5u0psIsNh3E919O_gLd9NM0N1Md1CX-SOkNwQNImUaasJa5WU9KVsHHNsiO8m33Te9VozZbc1NGupCOkLNAiwKZzERrTTs13nvQCX-3r4LUq5aKsJMzWIWgkJDeLtnJo017ySkh6FTy/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you are fan of Lovecraftian horror, these coasters are the perfect conversation piece for your table. As seen above, available now are the <i>Antiquarian, Criminal, Keeper,</i> <i>Parapsychologist</i> and <i>Private Eye</i>. The full set, not including the stand, is a $40 pledge. The stand is an add-on for $10. Maybe you just want one coaster to fend off a wayward Shoggoth? There is a $10 pledge level for a single coaster! Below you can see some of the artwork waiting to be unlocked from its eldritch prison:<br />
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I’ve had RPG Coasters in the Game Tavern for over a year now. Everyone that visits comments on how cool they are, or inquiries about where we got them. Not only are they epic gaming swag, but they are pieces of furniture. The holidays are still far away, and the Kickstarter looks to deliver before then. Why not surprise that relative or friend that has everything? Or just treat yourself to a glass of bubbling madness on a Cthulhu RPG Coaster!<br />
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“Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn.”</div>
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<i>In his house at R'lyeh dead Cthulhu waits dreaming.</i></div>
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<b>― H.P. Lovecraft, The Call of Cthulhu</b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ingramwoodworking/rpg-coasters-2-cthulhu">Check out RPG Coasters 2: Cthulhu Kickstarter here!</a></span></div>
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Grand DMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09300718024070553749noreply@blogger.com